Rangers’ revenge will be on the club’s mind ahead of their must-win clash against Livingston at Ibrox tomorrow.
Gary Holt continued what was a fine unbeaten start to his Livi tenure by downing Rangers back in September. A Dolly Menga strike was enough to see off the Gers in a lackluster display from Steven Gerrard’s men at the Tony Macaroni Arena.
It’s fair to say that Rangers didn’t do themselves justice on the day. A number of top players under-performed, and Livingston were their usual aggressive and combative self.
Yet, for those thinking Saturday will be the same kind of challenge, you couldn’t be more wrong.
This isn’t just because Dolly Menga will be suspended for Livi’s trip to Glasgow. His headbutt on Ryan Christie was pulled up by the SFA Compliance Officer, and he’s subsequently accepted a two-game ban.
Mainly, however, it’s simply down to the size of the Ibrox pitch. Indeed, the huge scale of Ibrox Stadium and the playing surface doesn’t suit Livingston’s game whatsoever.
They like to get tight and keep their shape narrow. With Scott Pittman, Shaun Byrne, and Keaghan Jacobs getting stuck in, Livi use their aggressive approach to their strength.
It’s to Livingston’s credit
All credit to them for it. It’s been working against everyone at the Tony Macaroni Arena, and at several different away venues. Ibrox, however, won’t give them that luxury to play narrow.
There should be plenty of gaps through the middle with Livi stretched on the wide turf. This is where the likes of Ovie Ejaria and Scott Arfield can really do some damage, particularly with some quick feet to get beyond the Livi blocks.
If Holt does decide to stick by his guns and try to keep things narrow, it should fall into the hands of Ryan Kent or Glenn Middleton. Rangers’ wide men have been enjoying a fine season so far, and Livi won’t want to let them roam free.
It all depends which Rangers side turn up at Ibrox tomorrow. In the main, the Gers should be comfortable and take this one with ease.
Livingston don’t have that same threat up top without Menga. Steve Lawson would be expected to replace him up top, with Scott Robinson just in behind him. Neither player, however, is particularly impressive with their hold-up play.
If Rangers are up for it, don’t expect a similar game to the one in West Lothian. Rangers are out for revenge, and therefore after rattling seven past Motherwell, they’re out to find it in ruthless fashion.
