In a thrilling encounter of the William Hill Premiership, Rangers triumphed with a 3-1 victory over Dundee United. The match’s conclusion not only sealed the win but also stirred deep emotions for Barry Ferguson, the interim manager, as Rangers fans passionately chanted his name.
Appointed as interim manager in February until season’s end, former Rangers captain Ferguson’s future hangs in the balance as the club faces a takeover. Rumors link Real Madrid coach’s son, Davide Ancelotti, to the permanent role. Amidst this uncertainty, fans’ support at the final home game deeply moved Ferguson.
“It means so much—I’ve been here since childhood,” he shared, admitting to feeling emotional. “I’ve poured my all into this job since day one.” Reflecting on his first interview, he said, “I vowed to stay true to myself, and I’ve loved every moment.” With a final match against Hibs on Saturday, Ferguson stressed the team must stay focused.
The game itself was a rollercoaster of emotions. In the 21st minute, Dundee United took the lead when their defender Sam Cleall-Harding headed the ball in. However, the lead didn’t last long. Just five minutes later, the enigmatic Cyriel Dessers equalized with a header of his own.
Dessers continued to shine as the game progressed. In the 71st minute, he stepped up to take a penalty and scored his 28th goal of the season. This remarkable achievement also marked his 50th goal since signing for Rangers two seasons ago. Shortly after, midfielder Nicolas Raskin added a third goal, solidifying Rangers’ victory and prompting the fans to hail Ferguson.
Ferguson lavished praise on Dessers, hailing his crucial goal as a game highlight. “I’m thrilled for him; big players often face unwarranted criticism,” he noted. After three months of close collaboration, Ferguson attested to Dessers’ relentless work ethic, emphasizing, “He gives his all, netting 28 goals this season—a brilliant return.”
Despite Tavernier’s usual role as penalty taker, Ferguson opted to let Dessers step up. “I thought, he’d better score or he’s in for it,” Ferguson quipped. Fortunately, Dessers delivered, and Ferguson expressed his elation at the successful attempt.
For Dundee United, the defeat was a significant setback. Currently fifth in the league, three points behind Aberdeen and one ahead of St Mirren, they’re on a four-game losing streak. Manager Jim Goodwin’s side aims to reverse their fortunes in the season finale against Aberdeen on Saturday, hopeful of securing a European spot.
Goodwin admitted the last four results were disappointing given the team’s efforts this season. However, he viewed the upcoming match as a chance to end on a high, saying they could not only hold onto fifth place but also leapfrog Aberdeen into fourth with a win—a powerful motivator for the squad.
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