adminRangers are still basking in the aftermath of their impressive Scottish League Cup victory over Celtic last weekend.
Derek McInnes’ first Old Firm clash as Rangers boss ended in a convincing 3-0 win at Ibrox.
Dan Neil found the net twice for the Gers, while Kevin Kelsy also opened his account following his late arrival in the transfer window.
The result marked a fifth consecutive victory for a Rangers team that has begun to build momentum following a difficult opening period under McInnes.
A number of players delivered eye-catching performances and received plenty of praise for their displays against Celtic.
However, it was one tactical move from Derek McInnes that particularly impressed former Rangers captain and ex-interim manager Barry Ferguson.
What did Barry Ferguson enjoy about Derek McInnes’ tactical decision in Rangers win vs Celtic?
Rangers were on the front foot from the opening whistle during their victory over Martin O’Neill’s team at Ibrox.
Ahead of the fixture, Ferguson had stressed that Rangers needed to be “aggressive” in their approach and ensure Celtic had no opportunity to settle into the contest or become comfortable.
One tactical adjustment made by McInnes saw full-back James Penrice push into a more central midfield position when Rangers were without possession.
Ferguson said McInnes’ decision “worked a treat”, while also believing Rangers’ dominance was largely based on their ability to control the midfield battle.
Speaking on the Go Football Radio Show, Ferguson said: “It was interesting to see the tactic that he went with putting James Penrice into the middle of the park without possession.
“I thought it worked a treat. was I surprised about Celtic? Celtic were poor but you’ve then got to give credit to Rangers.
“I thought the Rangers midfield overpowered the Celtic midfield and I’m a big believer in that’s where games are won and lost, and certainly Rangers dominated in there.”
Rangers ready to do it all over again
Any Old Firm win is something worth celebrating, particularly one as emphatic as the result Rangers secured last time out.
However, there is little time to dwell on the victory, with the two sides set to meet once again this coming Sunday (20 September).
This time, Rangers will travel to Celtic Park for the first Scottish Premiership meeting of the season between the fierce rivals.
McInnes will know that his team must produce another strong performance and demonstrate that their previous result was no one-off.
Winning in the League Cup was certainly something worth savouring, but it is the league title that Rangers supporters ultimately want.
If they are to have a realistic opportunity of taking it away from Celtic, they must ensure they remain competitive in their league meetings with the Bhoys.
Another compelling encounter looks set to unfold.
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