Rangers: Gordon Dalziel gushes over ‘Game-changer’ Jack Butland after what he did v Kilmarnock
Gordon Dalziel has dubbed Jack Butland as a “game-changer” after a moment of brilliance as Rangers beat Kilmarnock 2-1 on Wednesday 28 February.
Danny Armstrong opened the scoring for Killie very early on, slotting a penalty past the Gers shot-stopper after just 12 minutes, with John Lundstram penalised for a handball.
The home side at Rugby Park had an opportunity to double the lead against Philippe Clement’s men, who looked far below their usual standards, but Butland was there to save the day, which Dalziel believes helped switch the momentum.
Speaking via Clyde 1’s Superscoreboard on Thursday (29 February), the former Rangers forward said: “On last night, it was a game-changer because if Kilmarnock go 2-0 up at home, I think it’s a long way back for Rangers.
“I’m not saying they couldn’t have salvaged a point. Of course they could – I don’t think they could’ve scored three goals. When he was called into action, especially in that circumstance, he was absolutely brilliant.
“I’m thinking that [Matty] Kennedy’s going to put this in the back of the net, it’s a great chance for him, but Butland gets that save.
“Every Rangers fan will say Butland’s been the signing of the season, of that there’s no doubt. The proof in the pudding is that Gareth Southgate is now taking notice of his performances.”
Jack Butland proves to be real saviour for Rangers
It is easy to understand why someone like James Tavernier stole the headlines against Kilmarnock, having nestled a long-distance free-kick into the top corner to grab an equaliser.
Tom Lawrence was next in line, scoring the Gers’ second on the night to complete the comeback and steal all three points at Rugby Park, which is why Butland’s display flew under the radar.
However, without the former Crystal Palace shot-stopper, Rangers could have waved goodbye to three points just minutes into the second half. He was there in the nick of time to claw away Kennedy’s effort on goal.
Butland was switched on during the Scottish Premiership match, and it was lucky he was, as Mohamed Diomande was desperately happy to see the goalkeeper latch onto a poor attempt at a backpass.
The result proved to be vital in the Scottish Premiership title race, with Old Firm rivals putting pressure on the league leaders with a 7-1 victory over Dundee FC.
In other Rangers news, Jack Butland has shared which “huge” Ibrox moment wowed him.
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