James Tavernier made a big contribution on Saturday afternoon, as Rangers ran riot against Aberdeen at Ibrox.
Ahead of the game, we identified the skipper as a key player if the Gers were going to triumph.
Tav’s form had dipped slightly in previous matches, where he was caught out defensively on a number of occasions and a little less influential in attack than fans have become accustomed too.
However, he performed well this time around and scored well in our Player Ratings.
Having missed his last two penalties for the Gers, including one against Feyenoord in the Europa League, the 27-year-old showed real guts to step up and take not one, but two penalties in the game.
His first cooly taken spot-kick set his side on their way and his second, in the 70th minute, helped add further gloss to an already impressive scoreline.
There’s more balance in the full-back positions at present with the much improved Borna Barisic at left-back, so Tav isn’t having to shoulder such a heavy responsibility in attack.
He was still keen to get forward, though, and as usual, his crossing made life extremely difficult for the Dons defenders.
Defensively, although the visitors offered very little, he looked more comfortable than in recent outings against St Johnstone and Livingston.
Rangers fans praise captain Tavernier
Overall, then, a good display from the skipper, who is so crucial to his side’s title ambitions this season.
He now has three goals and six assists to his name in all competitions [Transfermarkt], and he will be delighted to get one over on Aberdeen, after their exploits in Glasgow last season.
The fans were happy with Tav’s contribution and when he posted on Twitter to mark the victory, he received plenty of praise.
Here’s a selection of responses:
https://twitter.com/Muttchoo/status/1178043276881989632
https://twitter.com/nickyt3232/status/1178029506466070528
https://twitter.com/george5840/status/1178206816674689024
