View: How Rangers used to movement to cut through Benfica
The performance of Rangers against Benfica in the Europa League produced promise and concerns in almost measure.
While on the face of it a draw away to Benfica would usually be considered an excellent result, the way in which the game played out will have left Steven Gerrard and his side frustrated.
Of course, the red card played its part, but the Gers were certainly impressive in the way the broke down a side boasting numerous experienced internationals. Often, breaking down a team a man short that is happy to sit deep can be difficult, but Rangers managed to capitalise almost immediately and had scored twice within 10 minutes of Nicolas Otamendi’s dismissal.
As is often the case against 10 men, movement was key to Rangers’ success. Against a set defence, breaking the structure is crucial and Gerrard’s side did that repeatedly to great effect.
For the opener (below), James Tavernier is incredibly proactive as soon as he gives the ball inside and Steven Davis has the awareness and skill to find him in behind the defence. Tavernier’s cross did not quite find the man, but given the pace on the ball and dangerous trajectory, the Benfica man could only turn it into his own net.
This willingness to create mayhem within the opposition defence was evident for Glen Kamara’s goal too, although this time the route was slightly different. Firstly, Kamara’s desire to get forward is excellent and it provides the isolated Alfredo Morelos with an outlet on the opposite flank.
Once on the ball, the movement outside from Borna Barisic creates the space for Kamara to cut inside and shoot, with the Benfica right-back drawn to the on rushing Croatian.
The goal put Rangers 2-1 up and it looked a long way back for Benfica. However, Rangers continued to attack and while this was their undoing towards the end, it allowed them to score a brilliant goal through Morelos.
With Tavernier on the ball, Morelos makes a vital adjustment and takes a step to the left, rather than continuing to his run directly towards goal and falling offside. This movement means that the defender loses sight of him, and makes the pass easier for the right-back.
Once creating this separation, it was up to Tavernier to find the ball and he duly obliged, with Morelos having an easy tap in at the back stick.
The way Rangers let go of the lead towards the end of the match was disappointing and very uncharacteristic for a side that has been so solid defensively this season. However, the fact that they were able to create so much, 13 shots and 1.98 expected goals (via Infogol), against a team like Benfica is cause for optimism.
In other Rangers news, ‘In hindsight, maybe’ – Gerrard admits decision he might have got wrong v Benfica