KE THEIR POINT RATINGS
Hagi were involved, while Barisic provided the cross for Kent to convert and ensure the job was almost done for Rangers after just 45 minutes.
When Aribo made it 3-0 with a glancing header at the near post shortly after the restart, that was very much that. Harsh, perhaps, on St Johnstone given their effort but Rangers were more effective in the crucial moments and had earned the right to control what was left of proceedings.
There was an Ibrox debut for Kemar Roofe and second outing for Cedric Itten, while Scott Arfield and Steven Davis were also introduced as Gerrard took the chance to rest some legs and get match minutes into others. Making all four switches at once was a show of the strength on the Rangers bench and both of Gerrard’s two new signings showed glimpses of what they will bring to the side.
A header from St Johnstone substitute Isaac Olaofe was saved by McLaughlin from point-blank range. It was one of the rare occasions that the keeper was involved as Rangers cruised over the winning line and – with Allan McGregor watching on from the sidelines – it was as close as the visitors would come as another clean sheet was earned for Rangers.
That fact would round off the evening nicely for Gerrard. Now he just needs his side to replicate this same outcome time after time to keep putting the points on the board. it
Flapped at a couple of crosses and poor positioning cost Saints goals
Heavy tackle on Kent in the second half. Tried his best to start Saints on the attack, but struggled to find the midfield
Lucky to get away with a yellow for a poor tackle on Kemar Roofe. Did well to marshal Alfredo Morelos for the best part
Tough evening for the defender. Tried his best to play out from the back, but had no luck
Had a tough shift up against Ryan Kent, but the youngster stuck at his task well
Lost his man at the front post as Rangers made it three shortly after the break
Tried to get on the ball and get things moving for Callum Davidson’s team
Tireless shift for the experienced midfielder on his 400th outing
Strived to support Hendry in St Johnstone’s attack, but ultimately couldn’t get in behind the Rangers defence
Had bright spells but was forced into a defensive shift, which didn’t suit him
Put himself about at the top end of the park, but failed to link the play as Saints looked to break. Big chance early on.