Rangers progressed to the final of the Premier Sports Cup after seeing off a Motherwell team adopting the tactics of other SPFL clubs who have punished Philippe Clement this season.
It was a tactic that paid off in the first-half as they went in a goal to the good leaving Clement wondering if his time as manager at Ibrox was coming to an end.
Instead, a renewed energy was discovered in the second-half as Rangers came from behind as the substitutes made a difference.
- READ MORE: ‘That is an absolute sitter’… Cyriel Dessers slaughtered as Rangers striker has Motherwell nightmare
James Tavernier has a difficult afternoon for Rangers
One of the criticisms thrown at Clement, is that he is too loyal to senior players who continue to let him down.
Cyriel Dessers and Tom Lawrence have offered nothing in attack, even when scoring goals, but it is James Tavernier who should be worried about his place in the team.
Speaking on BBC Sportsound’s coverage of the game, former Rangers striker Steven Thompson wasn’t impressed with the skipper’s contribution, after seeing the 33-year old blaze a golden opportunity over the bar from close range:
“Tavernier has not had a good afternoon, he’s really struggled today. That miss compounding the misery,” said Thompson.
Rangers fans all agree that Tavernier’s time is coming to an end
What didn’t help Tavernier’s cause was Dujon Sterling coming off the bench to replace him and showing the type of attitude and athleticism that the veteran has been criticised for lacking this season.
A simple recovery run to win back possession was enough for fans to make their minds up on who should hold the right-back starting spot in the immediate future.
“I feel that’s the end for Tav,” said one, “his time is up,” said another on social media platform X.
“Tav goes off, and DS improves the team,” with another Rangers fans simply pleading, “no more Tav.”
A sad indictment for a player who was once in contention for the Europa League team of the season and contributing to over 30 goals a season – Father Time waits for no man.
