[Wittmann 44]

Lionel Messi dubbed the football Rangers played in Europe “anti-football” and having watched last night’s travesty most neutrals would probably agree. AFU mentioned (I’m paraphrasing slightly) recently in the context of Chelsea that Grant’s job was to win things and that playing attractive football was secondary. I would reluctantly agree with that assessment but Chelsea are like Brazil 1970 when you compare to what Rangers served up last night and in previous legs. It should be pointed out that Fiorentina despite 60% possession only managed 4 shots on target and the Rangers rearguard did a fantastic job but 45 minutes in I found myself cheering the Italians. At ½ time I told the missus that Rangers would win on penalties which seemed the most likely way for the match to go.

Rangers fans won’t care and those who think football pragmatism is all can argue that Smith’s first duty is to win trophies but I for one will be cheering the Russians on. The thought of probably the most negative and least progressive team in the last 16 winning it is too horrible to contemplate.
If Petersburg get a goal its hard to see any way back for Rangers given the mindset they have played with here.

Well done Rangers in getting there – now I hope you get stuffed.