Derek McInnes’ wait for a first victory as Rangers manager continues after his side crashed out of the Europa League following a 1-1 draw against Jagiellonia Bialystok in the second leg of their third round qualifier at Ibrox.
McInnes, who remain winless after four games, will now have to contend with growing fan pressure as the Light Blues drop into the Europa Conference League play-off round where they will have to beat Czech side FK Jablonec if they are to extend their latest continental campaign.
Trailing 2-1 from last week’s first leg, the evening started on a positive note for the hosts as captain Lawrence Shankland tucked home his first goal for the club from the penalty spot. It came after former Celtic defender Yuki Kobayashi was penalised for handball as he attempted to block Daisuke Yokota’s cross.
Shankland’s assured spot-kick levelled the tie, but Rangers failed to build on that early momentum with Slovenian striker Nik Prelec, formerly of Oxford United, plunging a dagger into home hearts with a 65th-minute equaliser.
Rangers huffed and puffed but rarely threatened a late winner as they succumbed to the Poles, who advanced 3-2 on aggregate as loud boos rang out from the stands at the full-time whistle.
We give each player a mark out of ten for their display.
1. GK: Ivor Pandur (5/10)
Breathed a sigh of relief as Imaz's first-half effort struck the inside of the post. Got down quickly to smother another chance moments later. Strong hand to push another Imaz shot away to safety. | SNS Group
2. RCB: Dujon Sterling (4/10)
Forced the keeper to punch clear a shot from the edge of the box in the first half. Dragged out of position too often and was run ragged at times. | SNS Group
3. CB: Emmanuel Fernandez (4/10)
A night to forget for the towering central defender, who failed to keep Imaz quiet. | SNS Group
4. LCB: Olwethu Makhanya (6/10)
Fared marginally the best of Rangers ropey backline. Made a couple of important interceptions and stuck to his task. | SNS Group