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.
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5. CM: Dan Neil (6/10)
More like it. Threw himself into an early challenge that drew warm applause. Started the move which led to Naderi's chance before half-time with a clever pass through to Shankland. On the receiving end of a heavy second-half Romanczuk challenge. Subbed. | PA
6. CM: Nico Raskin (5/10)
Struggled to influence proceedings. Blazed high over the crossbar on the stroke of half-time as space opened up ahead of him. A difficult night. Subbed. | PA
7. CM: Thelo Aasgaard (5/10)
Lost his marker at an early corner which led to an opening. Unleashed a low 25-yard drive which flashed narrowly wide of the target. Sloppy in possession at times. Hooked at half-time. | PA
8. RW: Daisuke Yokota (6/10)
Rangers' brightest spark so far this season caused the Poles problems all evening. Found himself behind the full-back early on. Embarked on a mazy run that led to a half chance. Won his team the penalty after seeing his effort deflect of Kobayashi's hand. Continues to impress. | SNS Group