Rangers’ Ambition and the Hunt for the Premiership Title

Rangers manager Danny Rohl has made it clear that his team is embracing their role as the “hunter” in the ongoing Premiership title race. However, he also emphasized that the gap at the top of the table will not remain for long. With a strong performance against Dundee, the Gers have extended their winning streak to eight matches across all competitions, showcasing their growing confidence and determination.

The victory was secured through second-half goals from James Tavernier, Danilo, and Djeidi Gassama. This result allowed Rangers to close the gap at the top of the table, moving within four points of Hearts and two points ahead of Celtic with 15 games remaining. For Rohl, this is just the beginning of what he believes could be a remarkable campaign.

A Team on the Rise

Since taking charge in October, replacing Russell Martin, Rohl has overseen a significant transformation in the squad’s mindset and performance. He expressed his belief in the team’s ability to maintain this momentum and compete for the title.

“We know, and I think this is the good part when I look to my group inside the dressing room after a 3-0 win, that we want to do more and be better,” Rohl said. “We are not lazy now and think everything is going well. No, they are still hungry.”

He highlighted the importance of humility and maintaining a competitive edge, stating that the team wants to be the “hunter” on the pitch, pressing aggressively and taking control of matches. This approach has already started to pay off, with the team showing consistent improvement.

The Connection with Supporters

Rohl also acknowledged the vital role of the fans in turning around the atmosphere at Ibrox. He mentioned that the crowd’s support has been a key factor in boosting the team’s morale and creating a positive environment.

“We spoke before the game about the noises in the stadium,” he said. “I know this is always our responsibility to bring the game and the result. When we started together, the stands were more… not empty, but not so many people. I look around, then after the 2-0 and 3-0, the stadium was full and full, more people there.”

This connection between the players and supporters has been crucial in rekindling the passion for the club, and Rohl is determined to build on that relationship moving forward.

Leadership and New Additions

Rohl gave first starts to January signings Andreas Skov Olsen and Tochi Chukwuani, but it was captain James Tavernier who provided the spark with a penalty goal, marking his 100th league goal for the club. Rohl praised Tavernier’s leadership, noting that even when not starting, he plays a vital role in guiding the younger players.

“I think Tav knows his role,” Rohl said. “It’s important that he helps the group. In the last two games, he wasn’t on the pitch, but that’s also important. I spoke with him, it’s about leading the group, even if you’re not in the starting XI and being always there.”

Dundee’s Disappointment

Dundee manager Steven Pressley expressed frustration after the match, particularly because his team failed to create enough chances despite coming into the game with a strong recent record. He felt that his side showed maturity and bravery in the early stages but lacked the final product in the attacking third.

“At 1-0 down just touching 90 minutes, I was still disappointed because I think we’re better than we showed today,” Pressley said. “We’ve got some special players that can create these moments. So that aspect, I’m disappointed, because I genuinely came here thinking we could take something from the game.”

He added that there is still room for development within the Dundee squad and hopes to see improvements in future encounters.