Leon Balogun makes goal admission after Rangers win v Red Star
Rangers defender Leon Balogun has suggested that the Gers made “little adjustments” at half-time as they won 3-0 against Red Star Belgrade.
The Bears are well placed to progress through to the quarter-finals after their heroic win on Thursday (10 March) at Ibrox, although Giovanni van Bronckhorst has reminded the players that the job is only half done.
Balogun scored the third goal of the game in the second half. James Tavernier and Alfredo Morelos scored the other two goals.
“For me, it’s all about preparation and in-game management. We did a little adjustment at half time and even during the game,” said the defender, as quoted by the Glasgow Times.
“I thought [the header] was looking good. I was a bit scared when the goalkeeper got there, but without sounding arrogant, I guess it was a really good contact and the header was just too strong and I’m obviously really pleased that it went behind the line.”
Confident?
While Rangers haven’t hit gears in the Scottish Premier League, they have been outstanding in Europa League so far.
The Gers were superb over the two-legs in their 6-4 aggregate win against Borussia Dortmund, and once again they showed real quality against a strong opponent.
There is confidence flowing in the side, and it is reflecting on the pitch.
Morelos was superb once again, while special praise should be reserved for Allan McGregor who saved a penalty.
The veteran goalkeeper has come under strong criticisms from the fans and pundits in recent games, and he responded with a virtuoso performance.
Rangers should feel confident that they can get the job done next week when they travel to Belgrade.
The Rajko Mitic Stadium has a reputation of producing a daunting atmosphere, but the Gers should let the ambience shift their focus.
Another strong away performance will see them reach the quarter-finals for the first time in 14 years.
In other Rangers news, Mark Hateley is baffled by Giovanni van Bronckhorst’s decisions.