THE job is only half done – but it was a famous night for Rangers and their fans in Istanbul as they ran out thoroughly deserved 3-1 winners against Fenerbahce.
But there was one sour note on what was a famous night just before half time when members of the Ibrox side’s backroom team were targeted with missiles thrown by the home fans.
Neil McCann held back by Barry Ferguson[/caption]
SunSport pictures show Gers interim boss Ferguson holding back coach Neil McCann as tempers were raised between the Gers coaching staff and a section of the home support near the tunnel.
It’s understood what caused the friction was what appeared a drinks carton thrown from the home support and the Gers boss – and his decision to throw it BACK in their direction.
Another Ibrox assistant coach quickly on the scene is Issam Charaï – with the UEFA fourth official keeping a close eye along with police, stewards and other officials in close attendance.
The incident won’t do anything to overshadow what was a fabulous night for the Ibrox men and their interim coaching team.
Coming up against one of the biggest managerial names in the game, Ferguson and his backroom team of McCann, Billy Dodds, Charai and Allan McGregor deserve huge kudos for switching to three at the back in a 3-4-2-1 shape.
It exploited massive gaps between Fenerbahce‘s midfield and defence, with the likes of Vaclav Cerny, Mo Diomande and Nico Raskin putting in outstanding displays behind lone frontman Cyriel Dessers.
At the back, despite losing Robin Propper after a nasty looking collision with goalkeeper Jack Butland, the reshaped back three of John Souttar, Leon Balogun and James Tavernier were colossal.
The Ibrox side now have the rare benefit of a week off ahead as they prepare for next week’s second leg against the same opponents.
It will take a far better performance from Fenerbahce to take them into the last eight of this competition, where either Roma or Athletic Club will await the winners.
More to follow.
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