Rangers started their Scottish Premiership campaign on a winning note after beating Aberdeen 1-0 at the Pittodrie Stadium earlier today.
The Gers, courtesy of a Ryan Kent strike in the first half, were pretty comfortable throughout the game, and held on after a bit of a late flurry by the hosts.
Here are three talking points from the game:
Aberdeen 0-1 Rangers: 3 Takeaways from the game
#1 New signing impresses
Leon Balogun, signed for free just a days ago, was handed his competitive debut by manager Steven Gerrard, and the Nigerian international produced an impressive display.
Up against a team who rarely threatened, Balogun did well in the aerial duels, and showed he still has the pace despite being 32.
The defenders picked up a head injury in the second half after a melee in the Rangers penalty box, but recovered to finish the game, and help his side to a clean-sheet on the opening game.
A solid performance overall, and he could get even better after he plays more games with his new teammates.
#2 Rangers impeccable in possession, but need a plan B
The absence of the home crowd perhaps made things a bit easier for Rangers, who were rarely troubled by an injury-raved and toothless Aberdeen attack. The hosts tried to play on the break, often soaking pressure and allowing Rangers time on the ball.
The goal came from a nicely crafted move by Rangers, all the way from Allan McGregor. But after that, they did not really test Joe Lewis.
Though Rangers had four shots on target, their best chance to double their lead came in injury time when Joe Aribo’s goal-bound effort was blocked by Ash Taylor.
The likes of Ianis Hagi and Alfredo Morelos combined well, but Rangers will have to come up with a plan to break down teams when they sit deep, something we saw a lot of last season, and finish off teams.
#3 Forwards can’t return soon enough for Aberdeen
The Aberdeen lineup Derek McInnis put out was far from the strongest. Sam Cosgrove and Curtis Main often provide the goals for the Dons, and in their absence, young duo Bruce Anderson and Leeds United loanee Ryan Edmondson will need to step up.
Aberdeen were dealt another blow in the game when club stalwart Andrew Considine was shown a straight red for a dangerous challenge on Scott Arfield. The 33-year old will not be suspended for three games.
Not the start McInnes would have wanted.
