Derek McInnes namechecks  3 Rangers stars who were ‘top class’ against Kilmarnock with a price of £50m each

Derek McInnes namechecks  3 Rangers stars who were ‘top class’ against Kilmarnock with a price of £50m each

The Killie boss reckons his side were unlucky to end the night empty-handed but praised Gers’ match-winning trio

Derek McInnes has acknowledged three Rangers players who were crucial in Kilmarnock’s defeat at Rugby Park.

Killie’s crucial first-half lead was provided by Daniel Armstrong’s early penalty, and McInnes’ high-flyers were headed for yet another victory over the Old Firm. However, at a location where they have historically struggled, a magnificent free-kick from James Tavernier and a sophisticated first-time finish from Tom Lawrence won the league leaders an invaluable three points.

The Ibrox trio was superb that evening, according to Kilmarnock manager McInnes, while Jack Butland also made a couple of spectacular saves. “The game is about moments; there was nothing between us at times,” he remarked.

“In terms of the general performance, it was scrappy at times and we fought toe-to-toe with them. We were good in certain moments but Butland’s save at 1-0 confirms how good he is and that is a huge moment for Rangers in the context of the game.

At the time, I was yelling at my goalie coach because I thought Tavernier’s free kick had gone around the wall, but it actually went over the wall. Upon re-watching it, the height he achieves to lift it over the ground is simply amazing. He has consistently performed that for the Rangers.

“I find the second goal bothersome because, as Rangers fans, we always need to remember to take a deep breath and gather ourselves before playing again. In these situations, the Rangers counterpress can be effective; you don’t have much time, and Lawrence makes a fantastic strike with the ball.