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Craig Levein wowed by 'wonderful' Borna Barisic in Rangers win v Raith Rovers
Craig Levein and Steven Thompson were both wowed by Borna Barisic after the Rangers left-back produced some excellent crosses during the 3-0 Scottish Cup win over Raith Rovers.
The Croatian assisted Connor Goldson to give Michael Beale’s side a first-half lead against the Championship strugglers at Ibrox on Sunday.
Levein and Thompson were impressed with 30-year-old’s delivery as he caused Raith no end of problems, particularly in the first period.
“Raith need to try and stop service coming from the left-hand side. Barisic has put in four or five wonderful crosses again,” said Levein (BBC Sportsound, 13:12, 12 March).
Thompson added (BBC Sportscound, 13:12, 12 March): “The quality of the ball in from Barisic is superb and Sakala has just got to smash his forehead on it.”
Routine
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That was a routine day at the office for the Gers – and it was expected. Rovers offered very little going forward and allowed Beale’s side easy passage into the semi-final.
The Scottish Cup, realistically, is the Light Blues’ main focus heading into the latter stages of the season. There are some who will still harbour hopes of a title push, but it’s an unlikely scenario. Celtic are showing no sign of letting up and it will take an extraordinary turn of events for Rangers to prevent a title win for Ange Postecoglou’s side.
Therefore, the prospect of denying The Hoops a famous treble has to be a top priority. Beale has only been in the job a matter of months, but he will know the importance of silverware at Ibrox. Ending a season trophyless is a prospect which cannot be contemplated.
Rangers managers are judged on trophies and ensuring the Scottish Cup is retained is now pivotal for the Light Blues’ boss.
In other Rangers news, one man who was recently spotted at Auchenhowie can now save Beale some of those millions.