Steven Gerrard lauds Rangers’ defence in Hearts win

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Glasgow Rangers claimed an important victory at the weekend that has sent the Ibrox side to the top of the Scottish Premiership.

Steven Gerrard has lauded Rangers’ entire back four following their victory at the weekend, with the manager telling the club’s official website that he thought that Gareth McAuley and Connor Goldson were top class in the 2-1 win.

The Gers now sit at the top of the Scottish Premiership after coming from behind to beat Hearts at Tynecastle. It had appeared that it may not be a good day for the visitors when McAuley put the ball through his own net after they had made a lacklustre start.

But Rangers quickly got themselves back on track. Goldson scrambled home the equaliser before Alfredo Morelos scored what proved to be the winner before the break.

The second-half saw Rangers put in a solid performance that ensured that they held onto their lead despite losing Scott Arfield to a red card. And Gerrard was full of praise for the centre-back pairing, as well as James Tavernier and Andy Halliday.

“We were outstanding all over the pitch. Andy Halliday coming in at left-back was solid, [Connor] Goldson and [Gareth] McAuley were top, top class – that is how you defend,” he told the club’s official website.

“Tav, again, he has gone to the well for us in every single game and that is what captains and leaders do. In midfield, after 20 minutes they came to the party and started winning second balls and controlling the game for us.”

Tavernier, in particular, was arguably superb. He provided both of the assists and his crossing throughout the game was excellent. The skipper appears to be back to his best.

And while many will be expecting Borna Barisic to regain the left-back spot when he is fully fit, Halliday is doing a fantastic job of putting some pressure on ahead of his return.