After a couple of disappointing results which threatened to derail their season and undo all of Philippe Clement’s good work, how transformative could that pressure-releasing victory over Hearts in the Scottish Cup semi-final be?
It certainly lifted the mood a little, Rangers triumphing at Hampden Park to set up the first cup final meeting with Old Firm neighbours Celtic in two decades.
Mohamed Diomande, back in the XI after a brief spell out, was terrific, writing his place in magic marker on Clement’s team sheet for the remainder of the campaign. Leon Balogun looked far more stable at the back than the out-of-sorts Connor Goldson.
A return to form forCyriel Dessers felt equally timely, a brace for a striker who had scored only once in nine games before heading to the national stadium. Say what you want about Dessers – he’s inconsistent, frustrating and Rangers arguably need better if they are to reach the next level – but the £4.5 million summer signing can be almost unplayable on his day, especially when provided with the sort of service Todd Cantwell offers in the number ten role.
Todd Cantwell lauds Rangers team-mate Cyriel Dessers
“We were delighted to get the victory,” says Cantwell, setting up Dessers’ second of the afternoon with a thrilling, driving run into the penalty area. “That’s what we went there to do on Sunday. It was good to get the result.
“It was a must-win game against Hearts. We came out and we won it. That’s what was in the plan. The mission was a success. But I won’t be getting carried away. I’m in the team to create and that’s what I did against Hearts. An early goal always helps any team in world football.
“We got that against Hearts and I think it steadied us.
“I think we actually played some really good football in the first half. We were patient and made them run for it. A fast start helps everyone. That gave us confidence to play out from the back at our tempo.”
Closing in on 20 goals
Cantwell, the former Norwich City playmaker, has six assists in 2023/24. Four of those set up goals for Dessers,the Nigerian international’s brace against Steven Naismith’s Heart of Midlothian outfit meaning he has now outstripped the tally of Alfredo Morelos from three of his five seasons in Rangers colours.
Dessers can take break the 20-goal barrier with another striker away to St Mirren this weekend. And, if he does, do not be surprised if it arrives via a trademark Cantwell through ball.
“Me and Cyriel have a good understanding,” Cantwell adds. “From one of his first training sessions, I think we realised we would be on the same page. Hopefully we can get a bit of a run together now until the end of the season and get some goals and assists.”
