Russell Martin finally gets a Rangers win, but there’s a ‘but’ | OneFootball

Rangers’ win over Hibs in the cup was welcome, but it needs context. Rangers’ win over Hibs was not against a side in strong form. Rangers’ win over Hibs came against a team with almost the same record this season, with three draws and one win. That reality takes some shine off the result even if the ticket to the semifinal is secure.

Cavenagh in attendance

Chairman Andrew Cavenagh was at Ibrox and his presence put extra pressure on both the team and the manager. Cavenagh’s visit mattered because owners do not attend games without reason. The turnout told its own story as only 35,000 supporters came through the gates. For a cup quarter final at home, that is poor. It reflects discontent and frustration in the stands. A half empty Ibrox is as strong a message as any banner.

A poor performance

On the pitch Rangers again struggled. Sky Sports noted Hibs had the best early openings and should have gone ahead. Only a careless handball denied them the lead and their forwards wasted several clear chances. Rangers lacked ideas until Nicolas Raskin produced a stunning opener to change the game. His quality rescued what was another dismal showing for long spells. Without his strike the tie could have taken a very different turn.

Perspective needed

The draw for the semifinal is all that really matters now, but supporters are not fooled. The Times pointed out that fans saw a team limp through against opponents with near identical form. They also know Philippe Clement outright won this competition at his first attempt and that triumph did not set Rangers up for dominance. It shows that silverware alone does not solve deeper issues.

So the win stands, but the concerns remain. Edinburgh News captured how flat the performance was, how thin the crowd looked, and how Andrew Cavenagh will not have been impressed. Rangers need more than a goal from Raskin and a stroke of luck against Hibs. They need drive, structure, and authority if they want to break the cycle of fragile progress and constant setbacks.