Ryan Naderi made an instant impact for Rangers, firing them into an early lead against Queen’s Park in Sunday’s Scottish Gas Scottish Cup clash.
Danny Röhl handed the German striker his full debut, pairing him with Bojan Miovski in what appeared to be a 4-4-2 system. Rangers dominated proceedings at Ibrox, racing into control as James Tavernier netted a first-half hat-trick.
Queen’s Park defence criticised
Steven Thompson strongly criticised Queen’s Park’s defending for Rangers’ opener. Naderi grabbed two goals before being substituted in the second half, while Matthew Shiels was credited with an own goal for Rangers’ fifth. Miovski also found the net, and Tochi Chukwuani arguably produced the standout strike in the emphatic 8-0 victory.
For Naderi’s first, he was left completely unmarked at the back post as a looping delivery dropped into the area, giving the 22-year-old a simple finish. Speaking on BBC Sportsound (8 February), Thompson said:
“Such a poor goal to lose. We said before the match it was about staying in the game and not conceding early. If it’s from open play and a great ball, fair enough. But from a corner, unmarked at the back post? Easy header for Naderi and a horrendous start for Queen’s Park.”
Rangers’ momentum building
Röhl’s side are enjoying a strong run in the William Hill Premiership, reviving league hopes after a difficult start to the campaign under Russell Martin. Although Rangers fell short against Celtic in the Premier Sports Cup semi-final, supporters will be targeting a deep Scottish Cup run.
Queen’s Park, who managed a cup upset last season, were unable to cope with Rangers’ quality this time.
Röhl was keen to bring Naderi in during the winter window, and the club sealed the deal late on deadline day. With Rangers lacking a consistent scorer amid struggles for Youssef Chermiti and Miovski earlier in the season, Naderi already looks capable of solving that issue.
January additions have strengthened the squad, and the German forward is quickly emerging as a fan favourite in Govan. With plenty of football still to play, Röhl will believe his side can chase down Hearts at the top of the table while pushing for cup success.
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