Rangers defeated Hibernian 1-0 on Boxing Day to extend their lead at the top of the Premiership table to 19 points.
Ianis Hagi’s clinical 33rd-minute strike was enough for the Gers to triumph in difficult conditions at Ibrox.
The visitors dominated possession in the closing stages as they pressed for an equaliser, but Steven Gerrard’s side held firm to record a 16th clean sheet and 18th win from 20 league matches.
Here’s how we thought the players fared:
Allan McGregor – 7
A spectator for most of the game but pulled off a brilliant save from Melker Hallberg with five minutes remaining.
James Tavernier – 6
Struggled to deal with Josh Doig in the first half. Caught out of position on several occasions leading to chances for the visitors, while he wasn’t quite as accurate as usual with his delivery from wide areas. Perhaps a little fatigued.
Connor Goldson – 7
Not quite on song with his distribution but another strong overall showing. Saw a first-half header from six yards saved. Made an excellent last-ditch block on a Martin Boyle shot in 67th minute. Played a big part in yet another clean sheet.
Leon Balogun – 7
Came close to his first Rangers goal with a first-half effort cleared by Paul McGinn with Dillon Barnes beaten. Saw second-half effort saved. Lost Nisbet for big Hibs chance soon after but defended resolutely when under pressure in the closing stages.
Borna Barisic – 7
Worked hard throughout the game, bombing up and down the left. Made a crucial block from Nisbet in the 84th minute.
Steven Davis – 7
Controlled the match by popping up all over the pitch to receive and distribute. Another strong showing from the veteran.
Joe Aribo – 7
Showed remarkable close control and dribbling skills throughout. Lacked a bit of ruthlessness in the final third but he looks to be getting back towards his best after injury and illness.
Glen Kamara – 6
Very classy first half showing but there was a suspicion that he picked up a knock before the break and his influence on the game faded in the second period.
Ianis Hagi – 8
Lively performance and decisive contribution. Went close with an off-balance effort from the edge of the area after half an hour and scored the winner soon after, showing excellent instincts to get across his marker and finish cooly. Subbed for Arfield in 76th minute.
Ryan Kent – 5
Looked to provide a creative spark, particularly in the first half, but nothing he tried came off. Had a big chance blocked on the hour mark and looked very short on confidence in and around the area.
Kemar Roofe – 7
Showed flashes of real quality in possession, linked up well with the other forward players and worked extremely hard off the ball. Provided the crucial assist. Subbed for Morelos in 82nd minute.
SUBS:
Scott Arfield – N/A
Forced off through injury shortly after coming on.
Alfredo Morelos – 5
Put in an important shift for the final ten minutes, holding the ball up well. Had a one-on-one saved in the final stages.
Bongani Zungu – 4
Brought on to help see out the win as Hibs pressed for an equaliser.
