Ferguson Commends Rangers' Character After Thrilling Comeback Win Against Kilmarnock

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Barry Ferguson commended his Rangers team for their resilience in overcoming Kilmarnock 4-2, marking a successful start to his interim management. Initially, the match seemed grim for Ferguson as Kilmarnock's Joe Wright and Brad Lyons scored early goals. However, Rangers responded with Vaclav Cerny's 11th Scottish Premiership goal before half-time and Cyriel Dessers' equaliser at the start of the second half.

Ferguson expressed satisfaction with his team's determination to secure victory. "It was a horrendous start," he told BBC Scotland. "Maybe we gave them too much information because after going two goals down, we got a bit of grip in the game. Then, we were different class in the second half, with the type of Rangers performance I expect to see. There's a lot to work on, and we'll work on it, but one thing they showed tonight was character."

In a strategic move, Ferguson substituted Clinton Nsiala before the 30-minute mark, bringing James Tavernier into central defence. He explained to Sky Sports: "At times during a game when things are not going your way, you have to make tough decisions. Clinton's young, he'll recover from that, but I just felt at that stage we had to make the change." This decision proved effective as Rangers turned the game around.

The Nigerian forward Dessers put Rangers ahead nine minutes after his equaliser. Substitute Nedim Bajrami then sealed the win with a late goal, ensuring Ferguson's first match ended triumphantly. The manager acknowledged that his team only found their rhythm after falling behind but was thrilled with their spirited comeback.

Reflecting on his unexpected return to management after three years away from coaching since leaving Alloa Athletic, Ferguson admitted feeling overwhelmed by the opportunity. "It's just been a bit surreal," he said. "I didn't expect to come back into management. I was enjoying my new role as an ambassador but when you get offered the opportunity, I just thought I'd be crazy to turn it down."

Ferguson’s history with Rangers includes two successful playing spells filled with trophies. His familiarity with the club adds depth to his current role as interim manager. Despite not managing recently, he embraced this chance wholeheartedly.