Ally McCoist instantly reacts as ‘remarkable’ James Tavernier equals his Rangers record
James Tavernier matched Ally McCoist’s European exploits despite Rangers’ disappointing 1-1 draw to Braga on Thursday.
Braga striker Fran Navarro was penalised for a handball on the stroke of half-time, and Tavernier made no mistake in scoring from the spot.
Rodrigo Zalazar was sent off for a headbutt on Nico Raskin before Braga equalised through Gabri Martinez, as Rangers missed a huge chance to secure their first Europa League win of the season.
Mohamed Diomande was sent off in the closing stages of the match, and the draw to Braga leaves them 33rd in the Europa League table.
Even though they failed to win in Europe again, Tavernier became the joint-second top scorer in Rangers’ European history, moving level with McCoist.
James Tavernier hits 21 goals for Rangers in Europe
However, Tavernier was brilliant against Braga, providing a threat in attack while also adding an extra level of quality to his defensive performance.
The 33-year-old’s 21st European goal against Braga moves him level with McCoist in joint-second on the scoring charts, with Alfredo Morelos still out on his own on 29.
Speaking live on TNT Sports 3 during commentary, McCoist shared his instant reaction.
He said: “It was only a matter of time, his numbers are fantastic for a right-back. It’s remarkable how many goals he’s gotten for Rangers, and I hope he goes on to catch Morelos.”
| Player | Goals in European Competition for Rangers |
| Alfredo Morelos | 29 |
| Ally McCoist | 21 |
| James Tavernier | 21 |
Tavernier has faced criticism at Rangers this season, as the captain has failed to lead by example on certain occasions.
He responded well against Braga and has proven that without him in the side, Rangers would be in a much worse situation.
The numbers are absolutely staggering, given that he’s a defender, and it’s a testament to how important he’s been for the Light Blues over the last 10 years.
It seems shocking that Russell Martin wanted Tavernier to leave Govan during the summer transfer window, and fans were thrilled that he was allowed to stay.
James Tavernier will go down as one of the Rangers’ greats
Since joining the Bears from Bristol City in 2015, Tavernier has made 539 appearances and scored 137 goals.
His most prolific season was in 2023-24, when he scored 24 goals in all competitions and registered 12 assists.
Having never been considered to play for England is a real shame, given the numbers he has produced for the Bears, but he has never wanted to leave to better his chances of playing international football
He is a true professional, and Ibrox will be mourning the day he finally plays his last game.
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