Stephen Craigan has accused Rangers ace Joe Aribo of being too selfish on Thursday night at Ibrox – as the Gers progressed into the semi-finals of the Europa League. During commentary, he criticised the Nigeria international.
The Gers came into the match, trailing the Portuguese side after a 1-0 loss last week. But Giovanni van Bronckhorst had his side ready to go, scoring after just two minutes through skipper James Tavernier at an angle.
A second came when Kemar Roofe was put through on goal, and brought down by Tormena – who was sent off. Tavernier scored the penalty. Rangers had numerous chances to make it three, or even four. But there was a twist.
Braga scored themselves, making it 2-2 on aggregate – going into extra-time. Roofe finally scored his goal, and Braga finished the game with nine men. Early in the second half, Aribo curled an effort past the post from 20 yards.
That is, despite Ryan Kent being in acres on the left. Craigan said, during commentary on BT Sport: “He makes the wrong choice. Players have to be selfless, think of the team – if someone is in a better position, feed them in.”
Craigan on Aribo: Rangers win, but Aribo should have passed
Had Aribo fed Kent, the ex-Liverpool man had time to take a touch and pick his spot with no Braga defenders anywhere near him.Aribo chose to take the glory and missed by a good yard. It could have prevented extra-time.
Aribo is a brilliant player, rated at £20m. His ability to create something out of nothing, his dribbling ability and passing in the final third is second to none. But his goals, assists do not reflect that – that was a prime example.
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