The pressure was mounting on Russell Martin after a midweek defeat against Genk in the Europa League. Rangers were looking for their first league win of the season this afternoon against Livingston, and the gaffer might now have a sigh of relief, thanks to an injury-time winner from the substitute Max Aarons.
Below are the Rangers players rated in their 2-1 win against Livingston.
Denied Stevie May from a very close range around the hour mark. But he could have done little to stop Mohamed Sylla from finding the net moments later.
His stunning volley earned Rangers a lead midway through the first half. Was not punished, though, for missing a spot-kick a few minutes later as the substitute Aarons netted an injury-time winner.
Looked nervous while defending set-pieces. Should have done a lot better during Sylla’s goal. His lack of positioning allowed the defender to attack Adam Montgomery’s cross and find the target.
The Canadian also had anxious moments against long balls and set-pieces. Martin must be blamed for the lack of defensive organisation. Was taken off for Aaron soon after Sylla’s goal.
Kept on winning duels down the left. Was spot-on with his tackles and challenges. Made some maurading runs, and played several passes into the final third. Made way for Mikey Moore late in the match.
GLASGOW, SCOTLAND – SEPTEMBER 25: Russell Martin, Manager of Rangers looks on from the dugout during the UEFA Europa League 2025/26 League Phase MD1 match between Rangers FC and KRC Genk at Ibrox Stadium on September 25, 2025 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Euan Cherry/Getty Images)
Had an effort denied by Jerome Prior in the Livi goal. Was combative in the centre of the pitch.Struggled at times against the home side’s swift counter-attacking threats. Got replaced by Nedim Bajrami late in the contest.
Another dominant display from the Belgian, who controlled the midfield game with his vision, distribution and box-to-box movements. Set it up for Aarons’ winner with a sharp header moments before the final whistle.
A below-par performance from the Norwegian, as he failed to exhibit his creative spark while operating as an advanced playmaker. Was taken off for Joe Rothwell midway through the second half.
Was restored to the starting XI, replacing Mikey Moore. Assisted Tavernier for his acrobatic finish early in the game. Was replaced by Youssef Chermiti in search of the winning goal.
Troubled the hosts with his swift runs, dribbles and flashy footwork. But his lack of the end product remains a concern, particularly after such a blistering start to his Rangers career.
Missed a couple of goal-scoring opportunities. Featured as a targetman and did not have many touches while spearheading the attack.
Rangers Subs vs Livingston
Lost his place since his dreadful red card against Club Brugge. But the Englishman has now earned Rangers their first league win of the season with a late strike.
Failed to make any notable contribution since replacing Aasgaard.
Did not offer much high up the pitch, as he failed to threaten David Martindale’s men.
View publisher imprint
