Another positive display against Wigan Athletic meant that it was five shut-outs in a row, but Rangers fans shouldn’t be overly-confident about their clean sheets just yet.
Connor Goldson and Nikola Katic are both looking impressive in the early stages of their partnership, with Goldson in particular having a real dominating presence to his defending. This has been proven with shutouts against Bury, Shkupi on two occasions, NK Osijek, and Wigan.
Katic also appears to be a centre-back who can be relied on to get goals down the other end, with two to his name already in the clashes against Bury and Wigan.
It all bodes well for the season ahead, but it’s vital that Rangers don’t start to think their defence is improving at a great speed just yet.
Allan McGregor has been receiving rave reviews since his return earlier this summer, and the reason for that is because he’s still had a lot of work to do in ensuring these clean sheets.
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Against Osijek in particular, the Croatians had several big chances after unconvincing clearances from the Rangers back-line, with McGregor ultimately having to deal with it. The same thing happened away to Shkupi.
Yesterday against Wigan, Wes Foderingham had to save a penalty from Will Grigg to also keep that record intact, showing that there’s still plenty of work to do in that Rangers back-line.
Three of these five games could’ve easily seen the defence breached, but for some terrific goalkeeping. Whilst the spotlight remains firmly on Goldson and Katic at the back, it’s mainly been down to the work of the impressive goalkeepers that’s kept these clean sheets flowing.
The Rangers fans understand that it’s early stages in the Steven Gerrard reign, and eventually goals will be shipped. However, there’s a lot to be positive about with regards to the shutouts, and it’s clear confidence is being bred with each passing game.
Goldson and Katic will continue to gather an understanding with each other, but until then it’s important that McGregor keeps his eyes peeled in the coming games as the opposition will continue to create chances.