SET PIECES AGAIN A PROBLEM
Not a lot went right for Rangers in Amsterdam, but set pieces were a glaring issue once again. The goal scoring was opened via a headed finish from Edson Alvarez from a corner, and the frustration from Giovanni van Bronckhorst was clear to see. Rangers have a real problem in terms of their defensive set-up from corners and free-kicks and it must change quickly if they are to have a successful season. Not only will they be found out in the Champions League but set pieces will become a problem domestically too. Van Bronckhorst must go back to basics and ensure his team are on the same page.
SHOCKED BY THE STEP UP
Rangers looked out of their comfort zone for huge periods against their Dutch opponents and the defeat will have been a major wake-up call of what to expect in the Champions League. The Ibrox club must be praised for what they achieved in the Europa League, but they must now adapt to meet the demands of Europe’s elite competition. Van Bronckhorst has quality within his ranks who are more than capable of producing on the big stage, but they may need to adjust their game against powerhouses like Ajax. Silly mistakes, that they may get away with domestically, simply cannot continue.
HUGE GAME TO COME
Rangers now face a trip to Pittodrie where they will face an in-form Aberdeen. This will be a huge test for the Govan outfit, and it is vitally important that they bounce back to winning ways. A heavy defeat to Celtic and their awakening in the Champions League will be hurting for both the manager and players. Rangers cannot let the two heavy score lines get to them and must concentrate fully on delivering three points for their hurting fans. If they fail to do so, pressure will only mount further.
