The Rangers manager was rewarded with a 3-1 win over Scottish Cup final opponents Hearts – and a display that showed much promise for the future.
Only youngster Alex Lowry was kept on from the midweek win over Ross County as Rangers rested their key players before Wednesday’s Europa league Final against Eintracht Frankfurt in Seville.
Even James Tavernier and Connor Goldson, practically ever-presents under both van Bronckhorst and Steven Gerrard before him, sat out the Tynecastle clash with young defenders Leon king and Adam Devine starting alongside on-loan James Sands.
Hearts fielded a strong side with many of Robbie Neilson’s side expected to appear against Rangers again in the Scottish Cup Final next weekend but van Bronckhorst’s fringe selection signed off the league campaign a 3-1 win courtesy of Cedric Itten’s equaliser and a winning double from blossoming youth players Lowry and Cole McKinnon.
Here is how the Rangers players rated.
5. James Sands - 7
Out-muscled by Ellis Simms for opening goal, but apart from that was a dependable presence in defence with a good eye for a pass. Photo: Craig Foy - SNS Group
6. Leon King - 6
Stationed at left-back, the young defender was reasonably assured - although he did pick up a booking. Photo: Craig Foy - SNS Group
7. Steve Davis - 7
Once again dictated the tempo Rangers played at. His experience stood out a mile in this match. Photo: Alan Harvey - SNS Group
8. Aaron Ramsey - 7
Drifted in between attack and defence and showed some neat touches. Subbed in second half due to likely involvement against Frankfurt. Photo: Andrew Milligan