Rangers' disastrous season continued as Genk ran out deserved 1-0 winners in the Europa League at Ibrox to turn up the heat on head coach Russell Martin yet again.
The head coach had hoped to alleviate the pressure on his shoulders by claiming back-to-back victories as Rangers boss; however, when Mohamed Diomande was shown a straight red card for a tackle on Zakaria El Ouahdli, the apathetic Ibrox crowd could barely muster a grumble.
The home fans didn’t argue with the decision too much, outside of a few boos, as the attention turned back to their underperforming head coach. While he missed a penalty just before half-time, it was former Celtic forward Oh Hyeon-Gu who grabbed the game's opening goal for the away side, to add insult to injury.
The South Korean had an eventful return to Glasgow, missing several gilt-edged chances before and after his penalty, before he finally found a way past Butland in the home goal on 55 minutes. He’d have the ball in the net for a second time 20 minutes from time, though, VAR would rule it offside.
Rangers will now return to domestic action with a short visit to Livingston this Sunday (September 28), where Martin simply has to get his first league win as Gers manager - if he’s allowed to continue beyond tomorrow morning.
Here’s how The Scotsman rated the performance of each Rangers player in the 0-1 loss to Genk at Ibrox:
5. Jayden Meghoma - 6
Did well to close down Zakaria El Ouahdi early on after the Moroccan was played through on goal. Did well supporting the attack, but was caught horribly out of position at times. | PA Photo: PA
6. Nico Raskin - 6
Did the best as he could, and did well enough in possession. Rangers are a better side with him in the starting XI, but he couldn't get his side going, with their lifeless style of football sucking the energy out of Ibrox. | PA Photo: PA
7. Mohamed Diomande - 3
Sloppy in possession and gave the ball away under no pressure too often. Failed to create, and topped his night off with a red card. Shambles. | PA
8. Thelo Aasgaard - 4
Ponderous in possession. Had enough of the ball, but often went backwards. Didn't impact the game enough. Fired a great opportunity well over the bar just after the break, which summed up his night. | SNS Group Photo: SNS Group