Steven Gerrard called for “heroes and warriors” in Russia. He got just that, and more.
He got nine Spartans.
After Morelos was sent off – in an act of needless petulance which surely must be his last – hearts were in mouths.
When Flanagan went, the same hearts hit the floor along with our jaws.
Rangers just never do it the easy way. But, and here’s the most important part, the Famous Glasgow Rangers are back in Europe.
Backs to the wall but the wall never fell
It was backs to the wall stuff, and but for the help of the woodwork and another stretching, iconic save from the superb McGregor, Rangers would’ve been heartbroken.
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What’s crazy is that Rangers are still unbeaten. Ufa couldn’t muster a goal despite all of their pressure and Rangers hung out for a 1-1. That’s 12 games.
Ejaria’s opener must be commended. The youngster has come in for some unproductive flak in recent weeks but what a strike. He looks a real player and he too fought till the bitter end in the eastern Russian province of Bashkortostan.
We never do it the easy way
Rangers have a bit of a reputation for making things more difficult for themselves. Maybe our discipline was in question, but our heart never was.
This was Rangers of old and had shades of that famous victory against St. Mirren in the Scottish Cup. We might’ve even won the match in 90 minutes. The Rangers of Steven Gerrard are very much like the Rangers of Walter Smith.
To a man, the nine that remained on the field fought, scraped and defended to their last. Six games in Europe is their reward. Six games at least.
Enjoy this Bears. It’s the first time we’ll see Europe till Christmas in almost eight years.
Gerrard wanted warriors. There’s whole team of them deserves applause in Ufa tonight.