James Tavernier starred as Rangers beat Aberdeen at Ibrox.
Rangers goalscorer James Tavernier has told the Glasgow Evening Times that he was impressed with Graeme Murty’s choice of formation on Wednesday night as the Light Blues brushed aside Aberdeen.
Tavernier, 26, was one of the Gers’ stand-out performers after scoring a brace from right-back to help Murty’s side win 3-0 against Derek McInnes’ Dons, with Carlos Pena also finding the back of the net.
Interim manager Murty reverted to a diamond formation that saw teenager Ross McCrorie sit at the base of the midfield, while Ryan Jack and Jason Holt were used as box-to-box midfielders. Josh Windass and Kenny Miller started up front.
Former Newcastle United defender Tavernier chose to heap praise on the latter duo, stating both Miller and Windass spearheaded the Gers’ attacks well despite Windass recognised more as a midfielder.
“We are definitely delighted with the victory. After two poor performances and defeats, I am really proud of the boys,” Tavernier said.
“We set ourselves up in a good formation and we knew the game plan. Josh [Windass] and Kenny [Miller] led the line really well and we worked well as a team. The fans were expecting a reaction at home and we produced that.”
Rangers took the lead through Tavernier after Greg Tansey’s foul on Jason Holt, dispatching his penalty straight down the middle of the goal. Holt then turned provider again, crossing for Mexico international Pena who converted well.
Tavernier than got forward again in the second half to latch on to Windass’ cross to make it three, before Celtic loanee Ryan Christie was sent off for a second yellow card in the final minutes of the match.
The Gers now travel to Pittodrie ahead of Sunday’s clash in what will be Rangers’ second clash against McInnes’ men in five days, with the chance to go second if they gain three points.
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