Dessers and Tavernier ensure Rangers get the business done but Ibrox boos tell real story of Hearts clash - 3 talking points
Firing Cyriel Dessers scored the only goal of an ugly game as Rangers eeked to a much-needed, if less than inspiring, victory over Hearts.
The opening goal came on six minutes when Dessers made it three goals in as many games, James Tavernier's cross-cum-shot falling into his path to poke home from close range. An early goal had Rangers fans hoping they'd turn the screw from there but it didn't quite pan out that way, Hearts continuing to sit deep and keep things tight throughout the first half.
That's not to say they didn't create at all. They should have been level virtually straight from the restart when Lawrence Shankland selflessly put one on a plate for Kenneth Vargas. But the Costa Rican had his head in his hands when, one on one with Jack Butland, he could only hit the post and let Rangers out of jail.
Hearts created little in the second half but, in truth, Rangers created even less. Audible frustration was heard from the disgruntled home fans who weren't happy at their side for taking the sting out of the game, rather than upping the ante. Butland was tested again when Daniel Oyegoke tried his luck and while Gers weren't exactly hanging on, they certainly weren't as comfortable as they'd have liked to be.
Clement mixed things up to try and bring his team to life and the introduction of Danilo gave them a bit more spice in the final third. Nana Kasanwirjo rattled the bar late on
It wasn't pretty from anyone at Ibrox, but Rangers saw it out for three points on a day they needed them and move back to within nine of Celtic and Aberdeen. Here are our three talking points.
Return of the Tav
After being left out during the week, captain Tavernier was back amongst it today and had a telling contribution in the opening goal, a signature driving run down the right before his shot, which he may wryly claim was a cross, led to Dessers' opener. Prolific in recent seasons, this was only his fifth direct goal contribution of the campaign, and he was passionate in the celebration, having at last taken a first step in quietening down the dissenting voices over his position as captain.
Still, it wasn't all convincing. There were boos at the double sub that saw he and Barron hooked on 68 minutes, and you get the sense they were directed more at Barron's withdrawal than the captain, who again wasn't quite at his best. Still, Clement will feel his big hand in the opening goal vindicated his decision to start him over Dujon Sterling or Nana Kasanwirjo, both of whom were fancied over him against Olympiacos.
It's a position you feel the boss hasn't quite settled on, but a big hand in the goal may well be enough to buy the skipper some time to state his case after the international break.
Disjointed Jambos
As far as Hearts' shape goes, it was basic but effective, two banks of four making it hard for Rangers to break through them. That's the main positive Hearts fans have to take away from a performance that was defensively solid, but uninspiring in the attack.
On the ball, there was no real synergy or intent, frequent misplaced passes and needless turnovers making it hard for them to hurt Rangers on a day that they were there for the taking. They lacked pace, energy and ingenuity, and with a bit more bravery, they could really have ramped up the heat on a home crowd that was ready to turn.
Robust off the ball but uninspiring on it won't fly forever with the Gorgie faithful who have now seen their team score a paltry 14 goals in 13 league games. Neil Critchley may be happy enough at what his team limited Rangers to, but that doesn't count for much when you're fighting relegation, and leaving with no points.
Barron brings out the boo boys
Three points are three points no matter how they come. But once again, this wasn't great from Rangers. And boy, did the fans let Clement hear it.
Frustration was simmering amid a slow and sloppy second half, but it boiled over on 68 minutes when the boss made the curious decision to withdraw Connor Barron. Fans felt that, of the three midfielders on the pitch, he was certainly not the one that should have been hooked - and a startling chorus of boos ensured that message was heard loud and clear on the touchline.
Not every decision can be popular but concerns over Clement's leadership aren't exactly easing. This was another shaky performance, and while a win should see the Belgian through for another crack at winning disgruntled punters over after the international break, it's pivotal that they use the rest wisely and come back with a rocket up their backsides. Otherwise, those boos may become a familiar soundtrack to their season.