John Souttar on Rangers' Mentality and Season Outlook
Rangers centre-half John Souttar has acknowledged that fans are justified in questioning the team's mentality after surrendering a two-goal lead against Celtic. However, he emphasized that the team should be evaluated at the conclusion of the season.
During the match, two goals from Youssef Chermiti highlighted a dominant first-half performance by Rangers. Despite this strong start, the home side struggled in the second half as Celtic responded with goals from Kieran Tierney and Reo Hatate.
This result marks Rangers' fourth draw in their last six games, occurring at a critical juncture in the season. Currently, Rangers trail league leaders Heart of Midlothian by six points and face the possibility of dropping to third place if Celtic secure a victory against Aberdeen on Wednesday.
"Of course that's going to be the question," Souttar responded when asked about Rangers' mentality to close out matches.
"What I can say is that we need to be judged at the end of the season because there's nine games left and, if I was a fan looking just now, I'd be asking the same questions, it's natural.
"But, for me, we've got to be really clean in the next nine games. We've got to stand up and we've got to win and we can't afford slip-ups.
"Obviously Hearts are six points ahead, so it's up to them and we've got to hope they drop points and we've got to win every game. But I'd say ask us at the end of the season and judge us then."
Recent Performances and Challenges
Rangers have also faced criticism for their performance in the draw against Motherwell at Fir Park, where they conceded a late goal despite Motherwell playing with ten men. Additionally, dropped points in an away match against bottom-placed Livingston—who have recorded only one win all season—have disrupted the momentum following a spirited victory over Hearts at Ibrox.
Souttar stressed the importance of replicating the intensity displayed during the first half of the Old Firm derby throughout the remaining nine league games.
"The crowd was up, we were playing in their half, fast, aggressive football and we were the same against Hearts at home," the 29-year-old Scotland international and former Hearts defender said.
"But we've got to do it for the full game. There's no point doing it for 45-50 minutes.
"We've got to keep that going for the full game and, yes, there'll be periods where we can't do that the full game."
Upcoming Fixtures and Tactical Focus
Celtic will be Rangers' next opponents in the Scottish Cup quarter-final, scheduled for Sunday at Ibrox.
"Celtic are a good side, there'll be moments when they have possession, when they play their game and it's important then that we're a bit more experienced and we get into a shape and we're difficult to play through," Souttar added.
For further updates, analysis, and fan perspectives, visit our Rangers page.
Stay informed with Rangers news notifications available through the app.
