Rangers 3-1 Hibernian: Three things we learned

By Alexander Cruickshanks

Ibrox was rocking for the visit of Hibernian

Rangers defeated a spirited Hibs by three goals to one. The atmosphere was electric as the Ibrox side put some pressure on Celtic as they go top. Let’s take a look at what stood out from today’s game:

Squad depth is key

Abdallah Sima was back on the Ibrox pitch today (Image: Getty Images)

Rangers have been plagued by injury this season and it has been extremely difficult for Philippe Clement when it comes to choosing his squad. Since he’s been at Rangers he’s never had the luxury of a consistent starting 11 and has utilised players like Dujon Sterling in almost every position. Although it’s still not perfect a number of players have returned to help out the squad. Kieran Dowell is back in training as is Ross McCausland after an injury-ridden few weeks. And today the fans saw the long-awaited return of Abdallah Sima. Sima picked up an injury on international duty in January while at AFCON for Senegal. Sima looked sharp and helped see out the match. Rabbi Matondo also made an appearance off the bench and scored a beautiful goal to kill off the match.

James Tavernier makes history (again)

James Tavernier: The goalscoring defender (Image: Getty Images)

At this point, James Tavernier breaking records has almost become normal. But this is a huge one as he has overtaken Graham Alexander as the highest-scoring defender in British history.  His stunning volley was his 131st career goal. 131 career goals is a massive number of goals for any player, never mind a right-back. Of those 131, 123 have been for the Gers and this season he has 22. He hasn’t shown any sign of slowing down and continues to prove why he is the Rangers captain. He leads by example and has been one of the league’s best players for the past few years. You can put your money on the fact that he will add to his record and might even make it untouchable.

Over to Celtic

The reigning champions head to Almondvale tomorrow (Image: Getty Images)

Rangers’ victory today puts them back at the top of the league, two points ahead of Celtic. They had a game in hand due to the Dens Park pitch not being up to standard before the international break. Now the pressure is on Celtic as they go away to Livingston to try to put it back on Rangers. With the Old Firm next week any slip-up could be catastrophic to the title race.