Michael Beale‘s future at Rangers took a major hit as his 10-player side were beaten 3-1 at home to Aberdeen, who continue their mini-revival under Barry Robson.
In the first half, Rangers dominated the game, but it was Aberdeen who took the lead with their first shot of the match. Stefan Gartenmann finished unmarked from a corner to score his first goal for the club, eight minutes before half-time.
Rangers continued their dominance after half-time, but Aberdeen scored a second against the run of play. Jamie McGrath crashed home from close range, deepening the frustration for the home team and their fans.
The frustration spilled onto the field when Scott Wright, who was substituted during the half-time, was dismissed for two quickfire yellow cards. Rangers managed to pull one back with a close-range finish from Abdallah Sima, but Jack McKenzie sealed the victory for Aberdeen with a late goal.
This defeat leaves Rangers seven points behind leaders Celtic, who claimed a dramatic 2-1 win at Motherwell on the same day.
The match at Ibrox Stadium began with an Armed Officer abseiling down from the stadium roof, setting the stage for an exciting game. Rangers started well, with Cyriel Dressers missing a chance to score from inside the box.
Throughout the first half, Rangers dominated the gameplay. Sam Lammers and Sima had their shots off target, and Dressers was denied by Aberdeen goalkeeper Kelle Roos. However, it was Aberdeen’s first shot that resulted in the opening goal. Gartenmann found the back of the net from a corner.
In the second half, Rangers made substitutions with Scott Wright and Borna Barisic coming on. Barisic had an immediate impact, forcing a save from Roos. Aberdeen came close to scoring a second when Bojan Miovski hit the post from a cross.
Aberdeen eventually doubled their lead as McKenzie’s shot was deflected and McGrath capitalized on the rebound. Wright’s dismissal added to the disappointment for the Rangers fans. However, Sima managed to score a consolation goal, taking advantage of a mistake by Roos.
Aberdeen secured their victory with McKenzie’s late goal. Substitutes Duk and Hayes also came close to scoring. Sima missed two big chances in stoppage time, extending the agony for the Rangers fans.
Rangers’ next Scottish Premiership match will be away to St Mirren on October 8, while Aberdeen will play at home against St Johnstone on the same day.
For football fans, there is an opportunity to win £250,000 for free with Super 6. To participate, predict six scorelines before 3pm on Saturday.
ENND