Ally McCoist was seriously impressed as Tavernier put Rangers in front at Tannadice with a stunning free kick
Ally McCoist has hailed James Tavernier’s stunning free-kick against Dundee United and suggested the likes of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo would have been proud.
The Rangers captain continued his excellent run of scoring form as he netted his 17th goal in just 27 games. This one may have been the pick of the bunch, with Ibrox legend McCoist calling it “just magnificent”.
Speaking on Sky Sports, McCoist said: “Honest to goodness, we both thought it would be five yards too far out, but it is absolutely fantastic.
“I’m thinking the goalkeeper, but no, he’s absolutely no chance. He’s got absolutely no chance. The curl on it, it’s right in the top corner.
“I mean the guy can do absolutely no wrong at this moment in time. That was a gem, a peach of a goal.
“This is just magnificent. There’s no other word for it, absolutely no other word for it.
“I tell you right now, if Messi or Ronaldo do that we’re absolutely raving about it. We’re salivating about that. We really are.
“It’s as good a free-kick as you’ll see anywhere in Europe this year.”
Tavernier’s joy was short-lived, however, as Liam Smith equalised for the home side seven minutes later. Steven Gerrard’s men regained their lead with a minute of the first half remaining, and it was Tavernier who set it up with Connor Goldson heading home.
It remains 2-1 at half-time as Rangers aim to stretch their lead at the top of the Premiership to 15 points.
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