‘Take a bow’: Neil McCann praises Rangers player who provided a ‘wonderful’ moment last night

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Glasgow Rangers icon Neil McCann has waxed lyrical about Ibrox captain James Tavernier following his “wonderful” run and cross to set up teammate Alfredo Morelos last night.

Steven Gerrard’s charges were hoping to make it three wins out of three in the Europa League in their trip to Benfica, a team boasting 23 consecutive home wins prior to kickoff.

Things began badly for the Light Blues right at the start as Filip Helander’s error allowed Rafa Silva to drive at goal, his subsequent cut-back diverted in by Connor Goldson.

Rangers then found themselves with a man advantage after Nicolas Otamendi was sent off on 19 minutes, and soon turned the game on its head

A Diogo Goncalves own goal and a Glen Kamara effort in the space of a minute had the Gers 2-1 up at the break, before Alfredo Morelos became his side’s all-time European top goalscorer.

The Colombian’s goal came about following great work from Tavernier, and McCann – on BBC Sport commentating duties – was impressed with the full-back’s role in the build-up.

“Take a bow James Tavernier,” he said (19:08). “It’s a wonderful run and cross. Credit to the official on that side because he is onside. Morelos is never going to miss from there.”

The game finished 3-3 following Silva’s 77th-minute effort, aided by another Helander error, and Darwin Nunez’ 91st minute equaliser.

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Steven Gerrard has regularly stuck up for Tavernier amid criticism of the player, and this season, his impressive displays have answered most of the critics.

Despite how the result came about, a point away at a side that had won their prior 23 home games in a row is not bad by any means.

Rangers are still unbeaten in Group D and level on points with Benfica, as well as, of course, being on top of the Premiership table.

And the way things are going, Tavernier could answer whatever remaining critics there are in the best possible way over the next few months – lifting silverware.