Rangers Stumble on Opening Day with Disappointing Draw Against Motherwell
Rangers’ Scottish Premiership campaign didn’t get off to the start they had hoped for, as they were forced to settle for a 1-1 draw away at Motherwell, leaving manager Russell Martin with plenty to think about.
The visitors appeared to be on course for all three points at Fir Park after James Tavernier put them ahead. However, a late equaliser from Emmanuel Longelo, just before the 90-minute mark, denied the Light Blues an opening-day victory.
Martin will undoubtedly be frustrated that his side couldn’t hold on, and even more so with some of the performances that unfolded on the pitch. One name that stood out for the wrong reasons was defender John Souttar, who is still adjusting to the tactical demands under his new manager.
John Souttar’s Uneasy Fit in Martin’s High-Risk System
Souttar, known for his robust, physical approach, showed glimpses of his defensive capabilities. He won two of three ground duels and was dominant in the air, claiming victory in four out of five aerial battles. He even made a key clearance in the six-yard box following a spill by Jack Butland, part of a total of seven clearances on the night.
However, the system Martin is implementing asks more from defenders than brute strength — it requires mobility and comfort in wide-open spaces, especially with full-backs pushing high up the pitch. This left Souttar vulnerable at times, and he struggled to cope with Motherwell’s pace down the flanks, being caught out of position more than once. He also committed a costly error that led directly to a shot on goal, highlighting his ongoing struggle to adapt.
Danilo’s Struggles Continue — Time for a Change
Souttar wasn’t alone in underwhelming on the day. Brazilian striker Danilo, who started up front in the absence of Hamza Igamane, also had a poor outing and is now under pressure to retain his spot for the upcoming Champions League qualifier against Viktoria Plzen.
Rated just 5/10 by GlasgowWorld, Danilo looked out of sorts throughout his 63 minutes on the pitch. He lacked presence both in and out of possession, registering zero shots on target, no big chances created, and engaging in just one duelwith Motherwell’s defenders — a concerning stat for a striker leading the line.
In stark contrast, substitute Cyriel Dessers matched that duel total in just 28 minutes, suggesting he was far more involved and eager to make an impact.
Danilo’s ineffectiveness wasn’t limited to attacking play — his physical contribution when Rangers didn’t have the ball was minimal. Without effort or end product, his presence ultimately hindered the team.
A Ruthless Call Needed Before Plzen Clash
With a crucial midweek match on the horizon, Martin may need to take decisive action. Danilo’s form over the past three starts simply doesn’t justify continued selection. If Rangers hope to get their European campaign off to a stronger start than their league opener, changes must be made.
Dessers, with his brief but active appearance, may have earned the opportunity to show what he can offer as a starter. As the squad continues to gel under a new manager and system, those who fail to adapt quickly — like Danilo and possibly Souttar — may find themselves on the fringes.
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