On Sunday afternoon, Connor Goldson’s injury-time header ensured Rangers started the 2019/20 Scottish Premiership season with a victory.
It was an impeccably timed intervention from the senior player, which came as a great relief to Bears everywhere.
Perhaps the most relieved of all those connected to the club, though, was Steven Gerrard.
The 39-year-old found it tough against several teams last term. Aberdeen and Hibernian regularly thwarted his side’s attempts at getting a winning run going.
However, Kilmarnock proved to be the most frustrating of all. Despite dispatching them 5-0 at Ibrox in a Scottish Cup replay and 3-1 at Rugby Park in the League Cup, the Gers were unable to find a winning formula in the league.
In fact, they only mustered two of a possible twelve points against them.
With the departure of Steve Clarke and appointment of Angelo Alessio, things have changed in Ayrshire.
Yet, when Stephen O’Donnell fired home at the back post with less than ten minutes to go, Gerrard must have feared he would come up short again.
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Instead, as the clock ticked into added time, his
skipper stepped up and delivered a pinpoint corner, which his vice-captain powered home.
The relief was palpable amongst the Gers players, but particularly on the bench. Gerrard jumped up out of his seat and punched the air in delight, with his backroom staff not far behind.
Goldson’s header not only secured his team a vital early win, but it got a monkey off the manager’s back.
His reaction was exactly what Rangers fans want to see – pure passion.
Therefore, when the club posted a GIF of the celebration on social media, there was quite a response.
Here’s a selection of reactions to the footage:
https://twitter.com/Blue0rder/status/1158310981807890433
https://twitter.com/smithycrs92/status/1158306705933045761
https://twitter.com/hwells31/status/1158318218747895808
