It was never going to be a quiet afternoon at Hampden Park. Celtic emerged victorious, defeating Rangers 3-1 after extra time to secure their spot in the League Cup final. For Rangers, this marks another frustrating chapter in their pursuit of a win in this season’s Old Firm showdowns. The team has now failed to score in two attempts, recording a goalless draw at Ibrox before coming up short in this intense match. The frustration was palpable, especially from skipper James Tavernier.
New Boss, New Challenges
Rangers’ new head coach, Danny Rohl, experienced his first Old Firm clash. While he likely admired his team’s fighting spirit, he may also have recognized several moments for improvement. A key turning point occurred in the first half when Thelo Aasgaard received a red card for a high challenge on Anthony Ralston. Tavernier accepted the referee’s decision but questioned the consistency of officiating, pointing to two incidents where Rangers players suffered significant contact yet received no punishment.
- Key Moments:
- Thelo Aasgaard’s red card for a high challenge
- Tavernier’s points on refereeing consistency
Tavernier emphasized the importance of intent in officiating, stating that any stamp near a player’s head is bound to leave a mark, regardless of contact severity.
Rangers Show Heart Despite Setbacks
Despite being reduced to ten men, Rohl did not opt for a defensive strategy. Instead, he called on Djeidi Gassama’s pace from the wing, allowing Rangers to regain their attacking threat. By halftime, they had registered 11 shots on goal, with four on target, and earned five corners. This determination paid off when they were awarded a penalty, a decision some observers, including pundit Michael Stewart, deemed harsh. Nevertheless, Tavernier confidently converted from 12 yards, leveling the match.
Extra Time and Celtic’s Dominance
Unfortunately for Rangers, Celtic utilized their numerical advantage effectively when the match extended into extra time. Their superior fitness and quality became evident as they scored two goals, leaving Rohl’s side to reflect on what might have been. Although they showed heart, belief, and tactical bravery, Rangers ultimately fell short at a crucial moment.
Looking Ahead
Despite the setback, Rangers can look forward to potential rematches against Celtic. However, many fans might suggest a change in refereeing for those future encounters to keep things interesting.
In summary, while the match showcased intense rivalry and competitive spirit, it also highlighted the need for improvement and consistency as both teams move forward in the season.