In an interview with Ayr United Media, Ian McCall has praised two Rangers loanees, only one of whom turned out for his team.
Ayr defeated Queen of the South at a sunny Cappielow on Saturday, courtesy of a stunning volley from Stephen Kelly.
It was the 19-year-old Gers’ second goal of his stint with the Honest Men after he scored an eye-catching free-kick earlier this month.
The midfielder’s 26th-minute strike yesterday was too good for a player he has featured alongside for Gers development sides: Robby McCrorie.
However, while the Scotland U21 keeper was unable to keep a clean sheet, he too impressed McCall with his performance.
Rangers loanees Kelly and McCrorie earn praise
“The pitch was a bit sticky, which doesn’t suit how we play,” said McCall. “Consequently, two or three of the ball players didn’t reach the heights that they can. Although, I thought Forrest and Kelly did. I thought they were terrific.”
“I thought McCrorie had an unbelievable save from Forrest, I’m right behind it and it was right in the top corner!
“It was a touch of absolute class from Kelly to win the game for us. Total technique and he’s a wonderful footballer. Very un-Scottish in how he plays, he looks forward all the time. I love him to death, I think he’s magic to watch.”
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Verdict
This is high praise indeed from McCall, especially for Kelly.
The teenager has only been at Ayr for a month, but it’s clear he’s made a huge impact and has nailed down a starting spot for the second-tier outfit. Hopefully, he can continue to churn out these sorts of displays and perhaps, with a season of playing time and development under his belt, he’ll soon be able to claim a Rangers first-team shirt.
As for McCrorie, it’s great to earn praise from an opposing manager. The 21-year-old is seen as a future Ibrox no.1 and while he’s only registered one clean sheet since joining QoS, they have only lost two of the seven fixtures he has played.
