Rangers defeated Kilmarnock to secure a sixth successive league victory, climbing to the top of the Scottish Premiership. Derek McInnes’s side now sits one point ahead of Celtic, who travel to face Motherwell on Sunday.
The match hero was striker Ryan Naderi, who scored two goals in the first half. Naderi has now netted three goals in his last two league appearances, bringing his season tally to six goals and three assists. His winner in the 1-0 away victory over Celtic before the break was crucial for the team, and Naderi was also instrumental in the late win against St Mirren, providing the assist for Bojan Miovski’s winner. He has scored winners against both Motherwell and Celtic.
Born in Germany, the 23-year-old is a Czech international. He joined from German third-tier side Hansa Rostock in February. Last season, he scored one league goal and two in the League Cup win over Queen’s Park. He made his debut for the Czech Republic last week. Former Rangers striker Peter Lovenkrands told BBC Sportsound that Naderi reminds him of Thomas Müller. McInnes described Naderi as always honest and willing to put defenders under pressure, but noted he is not the type of striker who creates many chances for himself.
Rangers had conceded just one league goal in their previous five league matches, but after leading 3-0 at half-time against Kilmarnock, they allowed a late consolation goal from Nicky Clesen. McInnes cited fatigue and an extended break as reasons why his side did not maintain the same rhythm. He admitted that the second-half performance was 'far from where we need to be'. Despite this, Rangers now have seven wins in a row across all competitions.
Former Rangers midfielder Andy Halliday told BBC Sportsound that much of his confidence comes from Celtic’s struggles. Rangers last won the league in 2021, and McInnes wants the club to 'feel good about itself' after topping the table for the first time this season. The team suffered disappointment in Europe, and took only one point from their first two Premiership matches. Injuries to teammates Lawrence Shankland and Youssef Chermiti further strained attacking options, but Naderi has seized his opportunity.
