BBC Sport journalist moots ‘big test’ for Rangers after ‘vital’ win v St Johnstone
Rangers have a “big test” coming up against Spanish outfit Real Betis, according to BBC Sport journalist Martin Dowden.
The Gers clinched their third win of the Scottish Premiership season with a 2-0 victory against St Johnstone on Saturday (16 September).
Michael Beale’s side get their Europa League group stage underway against Betis next, with the match taking place at Ibrox on Thursday (21 September).
“A Rangers win was vital for the squad and manager Michael Beale to dampen the intensity of recent scrutiny and move forward,” Dowden wrote for BBC Sport.
“They got there, and deserved to, thanks to a combination of quality, bravery and simply being more clinical at two vital moments.
“That Real Betis tie will be a big test, though, one that Rangers will be desperate to pass. They now have a run of four home games in which they’ll seek to really get this season up and running with little margin for error as they proceed.”
Crucial period
It was a very difficult time for Beale and Rangers in the early stages of the season, with damaging losses to PSV and Celtic really hurting the man in the dugout.
Those significant defeats came after a very disappointing opening day loss to Kilmarnock, which immediately put pressure on Gers boss Beale.
He has, however, eased some of that pressure with a professional victory against St Johnstone, which should lift everyone at the club ahead of their huge meeting with Betis.
The Spanish side will be coming to Ibrox wanting to make a statement, but the home supporters will ensure that will be far from easy.
The Gers faithful will be in full voice for the European night, with Beale desperate for his players to turn up and kickstart their campaign with all three points.
Two wins on the bounce would really help build some much-needed momentum at this crucial stage of the season for the Gers.
In other Rangers news, Simon Jordan has shared a “could get worse” Beale verdict live on talkSPORT.