Rangers finished off 2022 with a comfortable win over Motherwell at Ibrox as they prepare for a huge New Year Old Firm clash.
Michael Beale brought Borna Barisic back into the fold after the Croatian helped his country onto a third placed finish in Qatar. The World Cup star wasted no time in making an impact when he whipped a perfect cross for Alfredo Morelos to convert inside the opening exchanges. Beale also gave a surprise start to Alex Lowry, with the young talent given a chance to impress before the visit of Celtic on Monday.
Ben Davies and Connor Goldson continued to gel ahead of the pivotal derby day as Beale made it four wins out of four. The Ibrox men made a stuttering start, but goals from Morelos and Goldson soon had them showing their dominance. The points were wrapped up in the second half thanks to Malik Tillman, with the tricky Bayern Munich loan signing continuing to impress under Beale.
There was cause for concern as Morelos limped off after a strong display from the Colombian striker.
Here is how we rated Rangers as they finished the year off with three points.
Allan McGregor - 6
Nearly caught out as Connor Shields latched onto a Lundstram effort. Had to deal with early pressure as Motherwell tested Rangers resolve. Composed display with little mistakes.
Connor Goldson - 8
Looking more comfortable alongside Ben Davies. The big defender got back on the scoresheet with a looping head over Kelly. A leader on the park and one which Rangers missed.
Ben Davies - 7
Called to action in the early exchanges as Motherwell threatened. Dealt with corners and shut out the Steelmen, partnered well with Goldson and looked solid.
Borna Barisic - 9
Returned from World Cup duty with Croatia and instantly made a difference with inch perfect delivery for the opener. A trademark cross found Morelos who fired home with a header.
James Tavernier - 6
Played a part in Rangers sloppy start with loose ball to Tillman. Consistent performance from the captain without creating much. Subbed for Devine in the second half.
John Lundstram - 6
Gifted Motherwell an early chance when a lazy pass slipped through Connor Shields. Got forward to support attacks, found himself in shooting positions - failed to pull the trigger.
Ryan Jack - 7
Another solid display from the Scotland international. A key player to help break down opposition attacks and got forward when needed. Don't be surprised if he's one of the first names on Monday's team sheet.
Alex Lowry - 6
Slotted in on the left to support Barisic. Struggled to make an impact from deep but grew into the game with some dangerous play. More to come from the youngster who drifted in and out of the game.
Malik Tillman - 8
Started off with some shaky moments but grew into the game. Showed his skill on numerous occasions, including a slick lay off back heel to Morelos. Got his goal in the second half with a cool finish. The Bayern Munich loanee continues to impress under Beale.
Ryan Kent - 6
Enjoying his new free role under Beale. Dictated forward play at times getting his side up the pitch. Found plenty of space. Could have taken more chances to drive forward with the ball.
Alfredo Morelos - 8
On the score sheet again. A roll back to the Gerrard years with the Colombian getting on the end of a Barisic cross for his first. Set up Tillman for Rangers third. Will have given Beale a real cause for concern when he limped off shortly after.
Rabbi Matondo - 3
On for Morelos to be given a run out. Pressed Motherwell defence and chased loose balls as the game fizzled out.
Fashion Sakala - 3
Subbed for Lowry as part of four changes. Caused a few scares in the Motherwell box.
Adam Devine - 4
Came on for Tavernier as Beale rung the changes on the hour mark. Replaced the captain with ease after a strong spell in the team.
James Sands - 3
Came on for Lundstram to help see the game out. Looked solid as the Englishmen's replacement.
Glen Kamara - 3
On for Jack on the hour mark. Helped see the game out.
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