Rangers player ratings vs Celtic: Hampden ticket booked with one 9/10 + smattering of 8s in Premier Sports Cup domination

Rangers soared into the Premier Sports Cup semi-final with a commanding 3-0 victory over arch rivals Celtic at Ibrox.

A brace from Dan Neil and Kevin Kelsy’s strike wrapped up a dominant quarter-final success for the hosts to ensure manager Derek McInnes won his first Old Firm game in charge of the Ibrox club.

Their opponents struggled to create many clear-cut chances and were second best throughout as Rangers progress to join Hearts, Hibs and Aberdeen in the last-four of the competition.

Here’s how we rated the Rangers players at Ibrox...

GK - Ivor Pandur (7/10)

As comfortable an afternoon as you’re likely to see. Barely had a save to make throughout.

RCB: Dujon Sterling (8/10)

Adapted seamlessly to the right-sided centre-back position, proving instrumental in bringing McInnes’ tactical vision to life.

CB: Emmanuel Fernandez (7/10)

Has endured plenty of scrutiny throughout the season thus far, but he delivered a far more assured display here. There were still moments of uncertainty when he had the ball at his feet, though. Had a headed goal disallowed.

LCB: Olwethu Makhanya (8/10)

Once again strengthened his case for being Rangers’ standout summer acquisition, producing another composed and dependable display at the heart of the defence.

CM: James Penrice (8/10)

Played a pivotal role in McInnes’ unexpected tactical approach, deployed in an unfamiliar midfield role that caught Celtic off guard. Adapted brilliantly, delivering an impressive performance. Influence was evident in both goals, playing a part in the build-up to strikes from Neil and Kelsy.

CM: Nicolas Raskin (7/10)

One of Rangers most experienced Old Firm campaigners dominated the midfield battle throughout and carried out a power of work.

CM: Dan Neil (9/10)

Has been somewhat of a slow-burner since arriving at the club, but this was by far his most impactful performance. Wearing the armband for his first Old Firm derby, he stepped up to the plate and took both of his goals incredibly well from outside the box. Subbed.

RW: Kim Min-Su (7/10)

Came agonisingly close to opening his account before the break, only to see his effort cleared off the line. The South Korean was presented with another golden opportunity after the break, but couldn’t beat Sam Johnstone in a one-on-one situation. Got himself into some dangerous areas, however. Subbed.

LW: Djeidi Gassama (6/10)

Looked a constant threat to opposition right-backs from the left flank, but is yet to consistently turn his promising play into goals and assists. Subbed.

CAM: Ryan Naderi (8/10)

Showed a real willingness to work hard and his movement off the ball caused all sorts of problems. McInnes appears to have plenty of faith in the striker, and that was rewarded here. Played an important part in the build-up to Neil’s opener. Forced off with an injury, which will be a cause for concern.

CF: Kevin Kelsy (8/10)

Still looks to be finding his feet in Glasgow following his big-money move from Portland Timbers on deadline day. Handed a huge chance to open the scoring just four minutes in when Johnstone gifted him possession inside the box, but failed to hit the target. Another opportunity went begging later in the half. Despite those frustrations, he showed a glimpse of his quality in the build-up to Rangers’ opener, producing a clever pass to pick out Neil. Found the net in emphatic fashion shortly after the restart, catching the ball sweetly first time to fire Rangers into a two-goal lead.

Rangers subs

Ben Godfrey: 4 - Replaced the injured Naderi after 73 mins as McInnes changed formation in the closing stages.

Badredine Bouanani: 3 - Making just his second appearance after his debut in midweek. Displayed a few neat touches.

Findlay Curtis: 4 - Took over from Gassama in the closing stages. His usual lively self.

Vanja Dragojevic: N/A - A late run out after being brought on for the impressive Neil.

Bojan Miovski: N/A - Match-winner against St Mirren came on for the final few minutes.

*The Scottish Football Social Club is presented by BetSBK.com | 18+ | Gamble Responsibly