Royal Antwerp coach Frank Vercauteren insists that he was ‘not at all impressed’ with Rangers during their 4-3 Europa League round-of-32 first-leg defeat to Steven Gerrard’s side, as reported by Sporza.
We are not sure what game Vercauteren was watching.
Because, while the seven-goal scoreline might suggest this was a topsy-turvy encounter with a whole host of chances at either end, it was as clear as day which side was the superior one at the Bosuil Stadium – and it wasn’t Antwerp.
While the Jupiler League outfit scored three times against the run of play – including a highly contentious penalty on the stroke of half time – Rangers dominated for long spells and had enough opportunities to kill the tie off before next week’s return leg.
Thanks to a Ryan Kent wondergoal and a late Borna Barisic penalty (his second spot-kick of the game), the Gers at least have a lead, not to mention four away goals, to take back to Ibrox.
“Today, it could have been 5-5 or 6-6. That was beyond expectations. We created opportunities and scored goals, so we have no complaints in that area,” said Vercauteren, who seems to be under the impression that his side were not outplayed on their own soil.
“I was not at all impressed by Rangers. We didn’t lose against a much better team today – on the contrary.
“It could have turned out completely differently. But they have qualities and can make the difference on an offensive level.
“We do have the feeling that it is possible (to turn the tie around). If we can improve the defence, I am convinced we can surprise them offensively. I am disappointed with the result, but we will not give up.”
When you consider that Rangers have lost just one of their last 40 games, it is fair to say Antwerp will not have history on their side at Ibrox.
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