Rangers defenders James Tavernier and Borna Barisic impressed for the Ibrox side as they progressed into the Scottish League Cup final.
Steven Gerrard’s side dominated the Hampden fixture, winning 3-0 to set-up a mouth watering final against arch-rivals Celtic.
One of the ways that the Gers exploited Hearts was in the wide areas, with James Tavernier and Borna Barisic finding acres of space on both flanks to help support the side’s more attacking players.
Tavernier provided the assist for Alfredo Morelos to score the second goal of the game after an overlapping run and cross from Barisic.
Dodds felt that Hearts allowing them so much space was a major tactical mistake.
As quoted by BBC Scotland (03/11 live match page), he said: “In theory, you can understand why Hearts have played narrow to drive through Rangers, but I don’t think it was a wise idea to leave Tavernier and Barisic unmarked as often as they have done.
“Rangers exposed areas that Hearts left open. Hearts practically gave up in the second half. It was just a knife through butter at times in the second half.”
McCann meanwhile told the broadcaster: “Rangers are so advanced and there is so much space for the full-backs to enjoy and at the moment they can just go where they want.”
Tavernier has received his fair share of criticism in recent weeks for his defensive performances, with much of it deserved. Also missing penalties, there have been question marks about his confidence and ability to continue in the right-back position.
With today’s efforts bringing his assist total for the season into double figures, there’s no doubt he continues to be a prime attacking outlet for Gerrard and his team.
With Barisic rapidly finding better form too, the League Cup finalists have two potent wide weapons capable of doing damage at domestic level.
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