Four games. Four wins. Eight goals scored. Zero conceded - Michael Beale is slowly beginning to ease the mountain of pressure on his shoulders as Rangers cruised into the Viaplay Cup semi-finals at the expense of Livingston.
The Light Blues set up a last-four tie against Hearts at Hampden Park in November after producing a much improved performance to ease past the West Lothian club 4-0 at Ibrox.
Beale indicated pre-match that he was seaching for a better display from his players and there seemed little chance of anything other than a Rangers win after Abdallah Sima’s controversial opener. The hosts’ enjoyed the lion’s share of possession, playing with a sense of urgency and creating several chances.
Having started the match at a higher tempo than in their previous two domestic games, left-back Ridvan Yilmaz staked his claim to keep the jersey moving forward after scoring a stunning second after the break to put the Gers in a commanding lead.
Luiyi du Lucas then turned Sima’s effort past his own keeper before midfielder Ryan Jack rounded off a comfortable night for the home side by rattling home James Tavernier’s clever cut back.
Here’s our post-match Rangers player ratings from Ibrox:
Unused subs: Robby McCrorie (GK), Leon Balogun, Cole McKinnon, Bailey Rice.
1. Rangers player ratings vs Livingston Viaplay Cup QF - gallery (GlaW)
Ridvan Yilmaz of Rangers wheels away in celebration after double his side’s lead against Livingston.
2. Jack Butland - 7/10
A very straightforward night for the Gers No.1 who had little to do throughout. Livi struggled to seriously test the Englishman. Routine clean sheet.
3. James Tavernier - 8/10
Limited Nouble’s attacking threat well and forced the visiting keeper into a brilliant early save after latching onto a rebound. Set up Lundstram’s effort and teed up Lammers late on, who fired over. Tremendous cutback in build up to fourth goal.
4. Connor Goldson - 7/10
Much like Butland, the imposing centre half had little threat to deal with. Won his headers. Neat and tidy display