Lawrence Shankland delivered a superb performance, netting two goals to secure a 2-1 win for Rangers at Falkirk on Wednesday evening, extending their run of consecutive Scottish Premiership triumphs. The Rangers manager, Derek McInnes, was forced to watch the action from the stands at the rain‑soaked Falkirk Stadium as he began serving a touchline suspension imposed for remarks he made last season while managing Hearts.
The opening goal came early, with Shankland showcasing his poise and finishing ability. After eight minutes, he collected a pass from Djeidi Gassama, turned sharply onto his left foot and struck the ball into the back of the net, giving the visitors an early lead.
The early strike was a reminder of why Shankland has become such a prized striker for the Glasgow side. Falkirk, however, were not to be dismissed. Their goalkeeper, Kosta Nedeljković, inadvertently deflected a cross into his own net before the break, leveling the score at 1-1.
The own‑goal was a bizarre moment that left the home fans stunned and highlighted the unpredictable nature of football. The second half saw Falkirk dominate possession and create several clear chances. Jacob Murrell, on his home debut, almost put the Bairns ahead when a well‑timed cross found him in the box, but his effort was saved by Rangers keeper Ivor Pandur. Later, Aodhan Doherty missed a golden opportunity after a mix‑up between Pandur and Ross McCrorie, allowing the substitute to set up Shankland for the decisive strike.
In the 79th minute, Shankland collected a precise pass from McCrorie, took a quick touch to settle the ball and fired a low drive into the bottom corner, restoring Rangers' lead. The goal encapsulated his clinical nature – a simple touch followed by an effortless finish.
Rangers now sit fifth in the league, having accumulated seven points from four matches, while John McGlynn's Falkirk remain winless and sit just above Kilmarnock, who have yet to earn a point. Post‑match commentary added further colour to the encounter. Former Rangers midfielder Scott Arfield praised Shankland on Sky Sports, noting that the striker’s movement and finishing are reminiscent of a smooth golf swing: "He just touches it, finishes it, and makes it look effortless. He's a classy finisher and that's why we signed him." Arfield also highlighted the resurgence of Gassama, whose two goals were described as "class" and a sign that he has reinvented his game.
Kris Boyd of Sky Sports echoed the sentiment, stressing that while points are crucial, the quality of performances must improve. He remarked, "Rangers have a clinical striker, but the overall display was a slog. They need to raise their level if they want to compete for the title." Rangers manager McInnes was candid about his team's display, calling it "too scrappy for my liking" and pointing out the numerous opportunities Falkirk created.
He criticised the lack of concentration, the tendency to play into a cul‑de‑sac and the cheap fouls that invited pressure. Despite these criticisms, McInnes expressed satisfaction with the three points, the effort shown and the characteristics he wants to see in a team that can win away games. He looked ahead to upcoming fixtures, hoping the squad can build momentum with two home games on the horizon.
Shankland himself was delighted with the result, stating, "I'm happy to follow up the weekend with another win. We had several chances around their box and we took a few of them. I’ll keep shooting with my left foot and stay confident – the scrutiny is high but we need to keep delivering." He acknowledged the need for improvement but emphasized that victories breed confidence and make the whole process feel easier. Falkirk manager John McGlynn admitted his side were "absolutely gutted" after the loss, despite the effort they displayed.
He warned against being labelled a team that can play attractive football but fails to secure points. McGlynn praised his players for their commitment and suggested that a respectable performance at Celtic Park would be a step forward, but ultimately stressed the necessity of turning performances into wins.
The match also featured a series of notable moments captured in the broadcast: Shankland’s opening goal, a missed chance by Falkirk’s Kim that struck the post, Nedeljković’s own‑goal, several saves by both keepers, and the late winner that sealed the result. Overall, the game highlighted Rangers' attacking potency through Shankland’s brace, while also exposing defensive frailties that need addressing.
Falkirk, though defeated, showed flashes of promise and will look to convert those chances into points in their upcoming fixtures. The win keeps Rangers in contention and adds momentum as they aim to climb the Scottish Premiership table.