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The National (Scotland)
The National (Scotland)
Sport
Jonny McFarlane

Jon McLaughlin's shaky Rangers showing defended by Michael Beale

Micheal Beale refused to criticise John McLaughlin despite the keeper's shaky showing against Ross County.

The veteran, deputising for the rested Allan McGregor, twice flapped at crosses during the 2-1 win at Ibrox, missing the ball completely on both occasions.

Jordan White was able to score after the first mistake, bringing the visitors level and provoking near silence from the crowd.

Borna Barisic's deflected free-kick would see Rangers collect all three points in the end and while Beale wasn't happy with the concession, he stressed there was more than his keeper at fault. 

He said: “I thought we were slow coming out to a short corner. We were winning the game 1-0 at home and we were comfortable in the game. Jon didn’t have much to do. Then we switch off, they deliver it and where are the centre-halves and where’s Jon? It’s a collective thing.

“This week we’ve had two games and a late night in midweek. I just felt Jon was the fresher goalie coming into today. He didn’t have much to do and I’ll continue to rotate them. I’m trying to get us through a tough schedule, that’s why I’m rotating.

“I’m assessing the keepers with a view to what I’ll do in the summer. Robby McCrorie’s injury hasn’t healed and he’s still three or four weeks away which is disappointing. It’s hard for him to show me what he can do.

“Jon’s always there. We all know Allan isn’t getting any younger and he’s our number one right now. But if I feel he needs a rest, Jon is always able. Have we lost any games with him? He’s not the issue. We conceded a lousy goal off a set play but we all need a shake for that.”

New Belgian signing Nicolas Raskin was thrown on for his debut with nine minutes remaining and made an instant impression.  The youngster looked bursting with confidence and threw himself into the game with gusto during an impressive cameo. And Beale admits, he was impressed with what he saw.

Beale said: “It was an interesting time to throw a boy on for his debut but I trust him. He was very good.

“He only met his teammates on Friday and worked with them for 25 minutes. To go out there was a big call on my behalf but I want to get him started.”

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