Legends lap up the acclaim at Ibrox as Rangers celebrate 150th anniversary
Bumper crowd turns out to see star-studded cast go toe-to-toe to mark the momentous occasion
HEROES could become legends at Ibrox in the coming months. For one afternoon only, it was the famous faces of yesteryear that took the acclaim of the crowd.
The last time many of these supporters – in an impressive crowd of more than 38,000 – took their seats here, Rangers stormed to the 3-0 victory over Red Star Belgrade that paved their way to securing a place in the last eight of the Europa League. When they return next Sunday, the Old Firm clash with Celtic could be a defining fixture in their attempts to defend their Premiership crown.
European glory and domestic success awaits Giovanni van Bronckhorst’s side. If those goals are achieved, the current Ibrox boss could be lining up with some of his players in fixtures like this in years to come.
Legendary status is hardearned at a club like Rangers. It is only bestowed on those who are worthy, those who win the medals and leave the memories that set them apart.
Time will tell whether any of Van Bronckhorst’s players have it within them to claim their own place in Rangers folklore. If the remainder of the campaign goes as planned, there will be many within the current ranks who will be cherished for years to come.
This was a chance for fans to enjoy a day at Ibrox without the pressure of a title race, an opportunity to welcome back those who have played such a distinguished part in Rangers’ history and give legends of the game their own taste of the Ibrox experience.
Supporters had gathered long before kick-off. As the sun shone, families posed for pictures as children made their first visit to Ibrox, while Barry Ferguson and Arthur Numan were the star attractions at the Fan Village that was once again set up in the shadow of the famous stadium.
The atmosphere was as relaxed as the pace of the game. There were no points at stake, but the professional pride that still burns within players of this calibre ensured there was no slacking once the pleasantries had been exchanged and photographs taken.
The likes of Kaka, Luis Figo and Gheorghe Hagi lined up for the World XI. So did Roy Makaay as he went head-tohead with the man that is
his boss on a daily basis. Van Bronckhorst calls the shots at Ibrox these days. As he strutted around the pristine surface, he showed that he can still pull the strings as well.
The Dutchman still looked the part. More than two decades on from his last appearance for Rangers, Van Bronckhorst was the man that many had come to see as he pulled on his boots once again in a match to mark the club’s 150th anniversary celebrations.
He was joined in midfield by Barry Ferguson as Ibrox also lauded figures such as Ronald De Boer, Jorg Albertz and Sasa Papac. Van Bronckhorst was given a rousing ovation when he was replaced by Neil McCann after the break, but the biggest cheer of all was reserved for Paul Gascoigne as he returned to Glasgow with a cameo four minutes from time.
Rangers had struck first as Shota Arveladze showed his striking prowess with a superb diving header to beat Jens Lehmann. The lead at the interval – which saw a performance from Saint Phnx – didn’t last, though.
Carlos Marchena nodded home a Kaka cross shortly after the break, before Nuno Gomes found the top corner of Neil Alexander’s net with an exquisite finish. The strike from Ricardo Quaresma – a curling finish with the outside of his boot – wasn’t bad either.
It was Gazza who had the final say. It was Gazza who deserved the final say.
His goal didn’t prevent Rangers losing 3-2 on the day, but it was an emotional, fitting moment. Ibrox had welcomed back more than one legend.