There's no such thing as a resit when it comes to the Old Firm school of hard knocks.
You either make the grade or flunk out, as Rangers boss Michael Beale is learning now after failing his first big test of his Ibrox reign. And the frustrated Light Blues legions hope his big Hampden lesson sinks in fast after lamenting the team selection call that played a part in Gers being outclassed by Celtic in Sunday’s Viaplay Cup final.
Gareth Friel, Edinburgh, was first on the phone to say: “Beale said he wanted to bring in players for the starting XI, not just squad fillers - yet he leaves Nico Raskin out of the biggest game of the season! It was a crazy decision given the midfield he selected has failed time and time against Celtic. Hopefully he's learned his lesson or he'll find himself under big pressure very soon.”
Gavin MacLeod, Renfrew, added: “I have a bit of sympathy for Beale’s choice of team. Opting for John Lundstram over Raskin should have given his midfield the ‘dig’ to allow Malik Tillman and Glen Kamara to flourish. But after Lundstram lost three 50-50s in the first 15 minutes, that should have been the signal that a change was needed.
"The midfield three looked disjointed and lethargic - and it’s where the game was lost. Too slow to make changes cost Beale - hopefully it’s a harsh lesson learned.”
Gordon Stuart also emailed in, saying: "The post match huddle with the team only serves to confirm to me that our manager is a showman, trying too hard to say and do the right thing but with no substance. Many will say it’s too early but for me the next few months will be critical for his future as Rangers boss.”
Gordon Hendry, Ochiltree, said: “As a Rangers fan I'm disappointed we lost this final. The only difference between the two teams is that Cameron Carter-Vickers defended a cross ball and we didn't. Why Fashion Sakala opted to shoot from that angle after Ryan Kent’s shot hit the post when he could have crossed the ball for a tap in, well only he can answer that one…”
Sakala lit the fuse for Sunday’s clash with his “other mob” jibe but it was Celtic who ignited another trophy success, rocketing on to glory thanks to Kyogo Furuhashi’s close-range double. Lance Little, Erskine, said: “The ‘lucky’ manager of ‘the other mob’ prevailed at Hampden.
"Ange Postecoglou’s team did their talking on the pitch. It could have been worse for the unlucky manager’s team if it wasn't for their keeper. Mr Beale’s unbeaten run has come to an end.”
Paddy Gowans added: “That will be motormouth Sakala back in his box. We won't be seeing him talking to the media for a while after that sitter he missed.”
Eddie Easson, Fife, called to say: “Rangers reaped what they sowed. Their manager showed his lack of class and dignity in the lead up to the final, while Sakala proved what he is, a small bit-part player who likes the sound of his own voice.
“Celtic walked the walk in every department. The Rangers board should keep Beale away from a microphone.”
Joe Murray joined in as he said: “Sakala, that was a great game you played. You sure looked like the better team! It's laughable! Get used to being below Celtic in every department.” Bud Hay, Dumfries, added: “That will teach Sakala and all the others to keep quiet.” Andy Mason said: "First defeat for the Rangers under Beale. You need to beat the best, not just the rest Michael.”
James Fitzpatrick had a message for Hotline regular Chis Lowe: “Well, well Mr Lowe, what's your excuse this time for your team’s woeful performance? Was it the amount of fouls we committed or the amount of yellow cards we should have got? No it was plain and simple, your lot were absolutely dire. They are kidding you on that they are a good team."
Neil Renton, Edinburgh, was disgusted with the pre-match scenes, saying: “Rangers fans who sang during the minute’s applause for Hibs chairman Ron Gordon should be ashamed of themselves. It’s another example of them doing as they please then wondering why all other fans detest them.”
And here’s something we’ve never seen before on the Hotline, praise for the man in the middle. Robert McEwan, Mount Vernon, said: “I thought referee Nick Walsh had a great game. No sending-offs, no dodgy penalties and the fact VAR was nowhere to be seen made for a smashing, spectacular game.”
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