"Philippe Clement is bringing the magic back to Ibrox".
Those were the words of TNT Sports commentator Rory Hamilton as Rangers took a giant stride towards guaranteeing European football after Christmas with a deserved 2-1 win over Sparta Prague at Ibrox.
First-half goals from Danilo and Todd Cantwell had the home side in cruise control but they were forced to cling onto maximum points after the Czech champions applied some late pressure in an entertaining Europa League group stage encounter.
Lukas Haraslin pulled a goal back for the visitors after 77 minutes to set up a nervy end to the contest but Rangers held on to ensure Philippe Clement stretched his unbeaten run as manager to six matches.
The Gers were comfortably the better of the two sides on the night, despite the final scoreline and they leapfrogged their opponents into second place in Group C, with leaders Real Betis 4-1 against Aris Limassol in the other tie.
Here’s our Rangers post-match player ratings from Ibrox:
Unused subs: Robby McCrorie (GK), Kieran Wright (GK), Dujon Sterling, Kemar Roofe, Leon King, Adam Devine.
9. Sam Lammers - 6/10
Neat pass to Cantwell which led to an early chance. Involved in the build up to Rangers' second goal. Got into some decent areas. Picked up a late booking and was subbed minutes later. | Getty Images
10. Todd Cantwell - 9/10
Flashed a low drive inches wide of the far post in the early exchanges with Sima unable to connect on the stretch. Masterful composed finish after cutting in on his right foot to rifle low into the bottom corner to double Gers' lead. Very threatening and looked capable of scoring every time he broke into the box. Subbed with just over 20 minutes remaining. | Getty Images
11. Abdallah Sima - 8/10
An absolute nightmare to play against at present. A constant threat and found plenty of space out out wide and in behind. Saw a lot of the ball and used it extremely well. Tried his best to carry his team mates up the pitch. Subbed. | AFP via Getty Images
12. Danilo - 9/10
A real livewire up front and helped to link the play really well. Sharp and alert to intercept Gomez's backpass and displayed outstanding composure and body positioning to slot low beyond the keeper for the opener. Provided the assist for Cantwell's goal. The post denied him a second goal after slack defensive play. Subbed late on. | Getty Images