It would be asking a lot for Giovanni van Bronckhorst’s team to live up to the pulsating performance of Thursday when they secured a place in Seville for the Europa League Final on May 18.
They didn’t reach those heights against United in a match that carried significance for the Premiership title race. Anything other than a home win would make mathematically certain the top league title was bound for Celtic Park.
At half-time Benjamin Siegrist had been called into action and his post struck but no breakthrough for the home side. United were seeking a boost to their European ambitions themselves but saw a point denied by a second-half penalty from James Tavernier and a goal from substitute Amad Dillo.
Giovanni van Bronckhorst then used the opportunity to field some youngsters and give more rest to his first-team after an energy-sapping few days.
Here is how his players rated in the 2-0 win.
9. Aaron Ramsey - 8
Far from dominant but picked and placed his team-mates, lifting the ball over to earn the penalty incident, also hit the post and offside in the first half. Technical ability to make match-winning contributions, even without full fitness, could prove crucial as Rangers pursue silverware in one-off ties later this month. Photo: Alan Harvey - SNS Group
10. Scott Arfield - 7
Denied by a good save from Siegrist in the first half after clever link with Sakala, general link-up play in the first half created openings but no goal for the Canadian international to mark his contract extension. Replaced by Alex Lowry. Photo: Rob Casey - SNS Group
11. Scott Wright - 5
Given a consistent run of starts by van Bronckhorst but after exertions of midweek failed to make much headway against United's defence before being replaced by Amad at the interval. Photo: Craig Williamson - SNS Group
12. Giovanni van Bronckhorst
Took opportunity to give minutes to those who needed it and give youngsters a taste plus full 90 minutes for Leon King - and still ensured a win. Photo: Alan Harvey - SNS Group