There was plenty to like and a fair chunk to worry about from that outing. A forward I couldn’t quite name at the time did enough to stand out — good awareness, always following up in the box and the sort of work-rate you want from a striker. He got himself in the right place and benefitted from a goalkeeper mistake to open the scoring. Small margins, but you can see the instincts are there.

Forwards who showed promise

To be fair, the centre-forward who caught the eye looked hungry and composed around the danger area. He didn’t panic and kept working until the ball dropped for him. That kind of persistence is encouraging. Big Chermiti, though, remains a worry. Too often when he’s through he seems to aim for the goalkeeper rather than the corner, and that lack of killer instinct is costly. We need someone who buries those chances.

Midfield — tidy and troubling in equal measure

The Chukiwooki lad was tidy on the ball, and not afraid to get stuck in. Comfortable passing, simple choices, and a willingness to shoulder the physical side — that’s what you want from a midfielder coming through. Olsen, however, had a poor afternoon. My sister nailed it watching him — he looked flat, lost in the middle and was hooked at half-time again. His only positive was the fortunate assist for Sterling’s header, when a miskicked effort fell kindly. Still, being rescued by luck won’t cut it if he’s to keep his shirt.

Looking ahead — patience and selection questions

There’s reason to be optimistic about a couple of youngsters and that unnamed striker, but also a clear reminder that finishing and composure in front of goal remain issues. I’m keen to see the left-back get a run soon and for the striker to build match sharpness. As a few on Rangers News Views have said, these friendlies and early outings are for ironing out the rough edges — and we’ve got a few to sort.

Written by Three Cheers: 3 June 2026

Tags: squad