Rangers players salute their fans following Sunday’s victory at Pittodrie
Manager Danny Rohl expressed his satisfaction with Rangers’ disciplined 2-0 victory over Aberdeen, highlighting the team’s “clean sheet mentality.”
The win marks a fifth consecutive victory for Rangers, keeping them within three points of Scottish Premiership leaders Hearts.
Since Rohl’s appointment in October, Rangers have conceded just eight goals in 14 league matches, securing 11 wins and maintaining a clean sheet in eight games.
In contrast, Rangers managed only one clean sheet in Russell Martin’s seven Premiership games, a goalless draw in the Old Firm derby.
“We defended until the end, securing a clean sheet,” Rohl told RangersTV.
“This forms the foundation, and if we consistently achieve this, we will be in a strong position. We must maintain our attacking mindset, remain hungry and ambitious, and display humility when appropriate.”
Despite the adverse weather conditions at Pittodrie, Aberdeen were limited to five shots on target, with Jack Butland making a notable save to deny Leighton Clarkson in the first half.
“I have immense pride in my team for securing a win in such a challenging environment,” Rohl stated during his post-match press conference. “We demonstrated different facets of our game, which is essential.”
“We played with physicality and determination, winning duels and securing second balls.”
“We demonstrated an understanding of when to play in behind and when to maintain possession in crucial areas.”
“The result was satisfying, and it’s encouraging to see the progress we’re making.”
“We maintained our focus throughout, and achieving five consecutive wins is a testament to our efforts.”
Rangers’ defensive solidity is particularly impressive considering the absence of first-choice centre-backs John Souttar and Derek Cornelius.
Cornelius has been sidelined since early November, while Souttar missed six matches.
However, the Scotland defender’s return has coincided with the team’s current five-game winning streak.
Souttar made a crucial early block to deny Nicolas Milanovic at Pittodrie, consistently marshalling the backline and keeping Emmanuel Fernandez focused.
While Fernandez may be prone to occasional lapses, the 24-year-old, who played in England’s League One last season, is an imposing presence.
He has scored four goals in his 11 consecutive starts, with another disallowed by a controversial VAR decision in Aberdeen.
Fernandez is a threat at set-pieces in the opposition box and is also adept at clearing them defensively. Nasser Djiga will likely have to remain patient on the bench after returning from the Africa Cup of Nations with Burkina Faso.
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Connor Barron was unable to return to his former club due to injury, with the tenacious midfielder facing up to three months out after a period of impressive form.
Rangers coped well in his absence, with Nico Raskin and Mohamed Diomande effectively carrying out their defensive duties, and Thelo Aasgaard scoring his third goal in five games to open the scoring.
“Danny Rohl is extracting the maximum potential from this squad,” commented former Ibrox player Andy Halliday on Sportscene.
“They may not have been spectacular, but they appeared very comfortable.”
Shortly before kick-off, Tochi Chukwuani was announced as the club’s first January signing, expected to provide strength and pace in midfield.
“Tochi will bring a strong physical presence and valuable European experience,” Rohl explained.
“However, it’s important to acknowledge the efforts of the existing squad, who have worked tirelessly.”
“They deserve immense credit, and this is precisely what we need: competition for places.”
“We must also recognize the progress we’ve made over the past 10-12 weeks, which has been outstanding for some players.”
“Consider Thelo, for example. He scored again, continuing his positive trajectory.”
Rohl has done an exceptional job in guiding Rangers, and fans are unlikely to be concerned about the lack of spectacular performances as long as the clean sheets and victories continue.
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