European Contrast

[Danny 9]

Seeing Celtic combat the might of Italian giants AC Milan last night gave some indication of what Rangers are currently missing out in, such is their ‘fall from grace’ these days. Yes, there is a second leg against Israeli side Hapoel Tel Aviv on Thursday to look forward to as part of the last 32 in the Uefa Cup, but it goes without saying it does not hold the same allure as testing one’s self against the 6-times European Cup/Champions League holders.

This is the current state of Rangers. Of course, it would be folly to dismiss last season’s heroics in qualifying for the last 16 of the premiere European competition, but that also went in conjunction with horrifying domestic form, form which has deteriorated this term. Ironically, of course, like last season, the club has managed to elevate itself in continental competition.

That all said, the bonus treat of Uefa Cup participation will come to a swift end on Thursday should the side fail to reverse a disappointing 2-1 defeat from the first leg.

Despite producing what many considered to be a competent and professional performance, Rangers collapsed thanks to a stunning free kick against the run of play right at the end of the first half, and an error from Murray which let Hapoel in for their second. Novo managed to gain the crucial away goal, however, and that and should make all the difference in the tie as a whole.

Frankly, last Thursday showed how much better Rangers are than Hapoel, but nothing is ever that straight-forward in football.

The hangover from that match was very much in evidence at Ibrox on Sunday. Falkirk were the visitors, and the Govan men made hard work of a 2-1 victory, working hard enough but looking visibly weary after two long flights to and from Israel. Falkirk produced a reasonably decent display, but Rangers’ lack of spark aided the Bairns substantially.

An interesting subplot of the game was the performance of Gow, Falkirk’s well-regarded forward who has already signed a pre-contract agreement and will be a Rangers player in the summer. His display was professional and he produced the best he could for his present side, with only one poor pass to blot his copy book. By and large he appears to be a very good recruitment for Rangers, and will give the squad some much-needed depth.

That all said, the most important event on the horizon is Thursday’s visit of the Israelis. It is a cliché, but failure really is not an option.

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