We did make it a bit harder than it needed to be in the end, but I’m not buying into the panic overall. For large spells, especially in that first half, Rangers looked comfortable. There was a steadiness to the play that’s been missing at times this season, and that matters as much as any late wobble.
A performance that deserved credit
The big talking point for me is Chermiti. He’s taken plenty criticism, and fair enough, that comes with the jersey. But against St Mirren he was my man of the match, and it wasn’t just because he had a couple of bright moments. It was an all-round striker’s display.
His hold-up play was the standout. Simple things done well, bringing the ball in, taking contact, buying a second for the team, and keeping attacks alive when moves looked like they were dying. That kind of work can get ignored if you’re only watching for goals, but it’s absolutely priceless in a tight Scottish game where teams want to squeeze you and turn it into a scrap.
Why it changes Saturday’s selection
On that showing, I’m starting Chermiti ahead of Danilo every time. Not as a knock on Danilo, but because Chermiti offers something different and, right now, more useful for what’s coming next.
If Saturday is going to be physical, frantic, and full of second balls, then having a striker who can hold it up is huge. It gives your midfield time to step up and support, and it stops the front line feeling isolated. You can see it when it clicks: the midfield gets higher, the links are shorter, and suddenly you’re playing in their half rather than firing hopeful stuff into the channel.
That’s why I reckon he’ll start and lead the line. Not on reputation, but because the role suits him, and because he’s shown he can do it in a Rangers jersey when the pressure’s on.
Nothing to fear, a chance to grab
So, onwards to Saturday. No fear. There’s a big chance here and Rangers need to walk into it with a bit of belief, not nerves. If we can take that first-half control and add a bit more ruthlessness, we’ve got every reason to fancy it.
And if Chermiti brings that same graft again, it might just give the whole side a platform to play off.
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Rangers News Views offers daily Glasgow Rangers coverage including match reaction, transfer analysis, SPFL context, tactical breakdowns and opinion-led articles written by supporters for supporters.
