Allan McGregor: His performances in recent weeks have provoked some criticism, but van Bronckhorst has been consistent in reaffirming who his No.1 is. Made a couple of routine stops in the second period but quiet otherwise. 6
James Tavernier: Given attacking freedom to overlap Arfield, Tavernier’s attacking involvement rarely involved crosses and instead came in the form of quick, attacking combinations. At times could have moved play quicker inside the pitch. Struggled at times without a winger outside of him to offer an out ball. 7
Connor Goldson: Looked uncomfortable on the ball in early exchanges and often held onto the ball for too long before trying to find a teammate, on more than one occasion delaying a diagonal and distributing once runners were offside. Made a superb last-ditch challenge to retain a goal lead at the break, however. 6
Leon Balogun: Introduced from the bench to help steady the ship in midweek and returned here to start for the first time under van Bronckhorst. With Barrie McKay to keep quiet, the Nigerian was strong in the tackle and a commanding presence. 7
Calvin Bassey: Looked liberated after being shifted to his more natural left-back slot on Wednesday and, also due to Borna Barisic’s horror show, kept his spot as a result. Played a superb pass to set Kent away in the lead up to the opening goal and used his pace to get forward on other occasions. A poor error right after the interval could have drawn the game level. 7
Ryan Jack: The only player to amass any sort of credibility following midweek was Rangers’ No.8 and making his first start since last season, Jack’s name was given the loudest cheer pre-match. He didn’t start in a double pivot but played high and pressed aggressively, always using possession intelligently and moving play vertically. An excellent return and left the pitch to a standing ovation. 8
John Lundstram: A previous home start against Hearts brought one of his few notable performances in a blue jersey – Lundstram’s strong tackling and aggression proved useful in the same fixture. Played a few delicate passes and couldn’t be accused in the opening 45 of slowing down the game. A performance that could help his Rangers career. 7
Joe Aribo: His central play has been one of the real positives in recent months and although the team sheet suggested he may play from the right, the Nigerian formed part of the left-sided triangle alongside Kent and Bassey primarily. A quiet afternoon for the midfielder who didn’t contribute all that much offensively. 6
Scott Arfield: Started the game higher up the pitch on the right side and made a good impact. Was able to receive the ball into feet and combine well with Tavernier and Jack, also linked well with Morelos at points. Very aggressive without the ball as the home side pressed Hearts successfully. Took his goal very well after a strong showing. 8
Ryan Kent: The optimism of Kent’s early showings under van Bronckhorst had faded somewhat by kick-off but the first half offered a reminder of how dangerous he can be, his superb assist a fine example of his impact when he simplifies his task. Should have added a second following excellent link-up with Morelos and often won the ball back high. Fantastic assist for the fifth. 8
Alfredo Morelos: Was badly missed despite failing to even feature while away on international duty. The last time Hearts’ visited Ibrox was one of Morelos’ worst afternoons at Ibrox, but his showing today was a reminder of how van Bronckhorst has revitalised the forward. A good option to play through pressure, physical when the ball went over the top and sharp when taking the ball to feet. Both his goals were superbly taken. 8
Substitutes
Glen Kamara: Replaced the excellent Ryan Jack and instantly made an impact, running through on goal and chopping onto his left foot to score. 7
Aaron Ramsey: Arrived to rapturous applause for the final 15 minutes. Looked tidy in moments. 5
Fashion Sakala: Added an excellent fifth goal following his arrival, taking a clever first touch to set up a left-footed drive. 7
Amad Diallo: Came on for final exchanges. 5
Steven Davis: Back on the pitch after an injury layoff. 5
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