BBC Sportscene presenter Steven Thompson wowed by ‘exquisite’ moment in Rangers 3-2 win v Real Betis
BBC Sportscene presenter Steven Thompson could not hide his awe at Juan Miranda’s first equaliser for Real Betis in their thrilling 3-2 loss against Rangers on Thursday (14 December).
The Gers needed a win at the Benito Villamarín Stadium to secure their place in the Europa League last-16, and that’s what they to top the group on a memorable evening.
Rangers took the lead inside ten minutes when Abdallah Sima notched his 15th goal in all competitions, converting Cyriel Dessers’ pass into the bottom corner but Spanish La Liga outfit Betis equalised four minutes later when left-back Miranda finished off a stunning move.
And Thompson, speaking live on BBC Sportsound’s commentary of the game (14 December, 8:16 pm) was left stunned: “That is a phenomenal goal.
“It looked like a very difficult angle but he catches it so sweetly.
“The football leading up to it, the speed of the passing and then the shot – an exquisite goal.”
What a game
Philippe Clement will certainly be disappointed at the way his side conceded Betis’ equalisers especially after brilliantly matching their opponents for quality and precision in front of goal.
However, the game made for a tremendous thriller as both sides went full throttle in what will certainly go down as one of Clement’s most impressive games as Rangers manager.
Despite the lapses in defence, the Gers can take away great confidence from this match as they matched and toppled a Spanish side that have only lost once in their last 17 games in all competitions, especially with several of their key players out of action.
And to beat them on their own turf and secure their place in the Europa League last 16 is simply brilliant and also encapsulates the superb progress they’ve made under Clement’s management.
One thing Clement will be saying to his team though, is that if they want to make another impression in the competition, they simply cannot allow such defensive lapses again, especially with a Viaplay Cup final to come against Aberdeen.
Those are certainly where the small margins lie, and Clement will demand they go in his team’s favour.
In other Rangers news, Andy Halliday has urged Clement to axe Ridvan Yilmaz for the Viaplay Cup final at Hampden