I won't ever go into a game thinking a point will be acceptable. There's a big difference between pragmatic realism once you're two goals down and setting out before kick-off with the mindset that a draw will do. The former is about rescue, grit and character. The latter becomes a self-fulfilling limitation.

Mindset before kick-off

Players go through routines, pep talks and mental prep. You can see why a manager might adjust instructions against certain opponents, but the core expectation should still be to take the game. If you start compact and content with a draw from the off, you invite pressure, lose control of tempo and hand initiative to the opposition. Rangers supporters rightly want a team that believes it can win — that's the DNA of this club.

Players, supporters and different views

There's room for differing opinions. Some fans are realistic about away trips or tough fixtures and say a point would be useful. Fair enough. But talking about what you want the players to believe is not the same as ticking off a sensible result in a forum post. When I say I won't accept going into a match resigned to a draw, I'm talking about the players' mentality: ambition, intent, the refusal to play for a stalemate.

Keep the debate healthy

We're all allowed to disagree. That's the point of a forum. But if you can't take someone disagreeing with your view then there's always the ignore function. Debate should be about football — shape, tempo, pressing, mentality — not personal digs. To be fair, differences of opinion can sharpen ideas and make the club better if they're expressed with a bit of common sense.

Truth is, I want a Rangers side that goes out to win. Comebacks are part of football and show character, but aim for victory from the start and you give yourself the best chance to get it.

Written by JFM09: 6 March 2026

Tags: tactics transfers