On a bitterly cold night at Ibrox, Rangers delivered another commanding performance, taking another step in the right direction under Danny Rohl. Just three days after a statement victory at Celtic Park, the team showed they can manage the adrenaline and pressure that come with big fixtures, proving they are firmly in the title race.
The opening goal set the tone for the evening. Manny Fernandez was on hand to capitalise on a rare mistake from Dimitar Mitov, heading home from a perfectly delivered Connor Barron corner. It was a textbook set-piece finish and a reminder of the impact that Scott Fry, the set-piece coach, has had since joining in November. Moments later, Nico Raskin doubled the lead, again from Barron’s delivery, underlining Rangers’ threat from dead-ball situations and their clinical approach in front of goal.
Rangers dominated from the first whistle, moving the ball with tempo and authority. James Tavernier was influential, linking play and creating openings, while Mohamed Diomande’s drive and energy added another dimension. For all their effort, Aberdeen offered little resistance. Kenan Bilalovic’s early misses symbolised a side struggling for confidence, and sloppy fouls and poor decisions only compounded their problems.
The second half saw Rangers ease off slightly, but the game was never in doubt. Jack Butland made a few crucial saves, while Fernandez’s defensive work and timely blocks ensured Aberdeen could not mount any serious challenge. The visitors’ defensive frailties and lack of cohesion were apparent throughout, leaving Peter Leven plenty to ponder ahead of Sunday’s Pittodrie clash.
Rangers’ victory now sees them four wins on the spin since the Tynecastle defeat, cutting the gap to Hearts to just three points in the league. For Rohl, this is confirmation that his side can respond to setbacks and handle the pressure of leading the Scottish Premiership chase. While there is still room for improvement, the confidence, tempo, and composure displayed here suggest this team is growing into a genuine contender.
Set-pieces continue to be a major weapon. Both goals came from corners that looked straight out of training, showing how meticulous preparation can pay dividends in tight games. It’s a reminder that tactical attention to detail, combined with individual quality, can make all the difference at this level. Rangers now look like a side capable of grinding out results, but also of taking their chances when they arise.
Aberdeen, by contrast, are drifting. Their fifth defeat in six matches leaves them in danger of falling further behind the top six. Unless Leven or his successor can galvanise this underperforming squad, the challenge for European qualification will only get tougher. On this evidence, the Dons were second best across the park and never really threatened to change the outcome.
Sunday’s trip to Pittodrie will be another test, but Rangers are showing all the hallmarks of a team growing in confidence and belief. With a blend of set-piece prowess, structured defending, and attacking authority, Rohl’s side are very much in the hunt for the Scottish Premiership crown.
