Andy Walker hails James Tavernier’s showing in first half at Aberdeen
Sky Sports pundit Andy Walker was filled with praise for Rangers captain James Tavernier in the first half against Aberdeen.
During a sequence down the right hand side in the opening exchanges the Gers right back epitomised the standard required at the league leaders with great control in a tight area.
Speaking live on the Sky Sports Main Event match broadcast, former Celtic man Walker said: “Excellent from Tavernier, he really didn’t have a lot of room to work with there, kept possession really well”.
Maintaining standards
The English right-back looked assured early in the first half at Pittodrie as the Light Blues weather some early pressure from the home side to take the lead.
The former Wigan man’s calm under pressure in the 16th minute came at a time when the Dons were trying to take advantage of a lively atmosphere, having already hit the post through Teddy Jenks.
But the visitors took the leader as action at both ends saw Ianis Hagi score a 20th-minute opener from Ryan Kent’s cross, seconds after Aberdeen thought they should have had a penalty.
Ryan Hedges had raced clear and put the ball past the onrushing Allan McGregor before going down after apparently making contact with the Rangers keeper.
However, the referee was not interested and the Gers opener stood.
With Giovanni van Bronckhorst looking to continue his perfect start in the league with an eighth win in succession, the opening goal put them in control.
Chasing from second place, Celtic had returned after the winter break with a win over Hibernian on Monday so a response from the Ibrox side was crucial.
In other Rangers news, this transfer target has reportedly put in a transfer request.