Rory Loy has raised concerns about the ability of three key players from Rangers to handle the pressure of a genuine title race. Following a disappointing goalless draw with Dundee and a weekend defeat to Ross County, Rangers find themselves trailing Celtic by three points in the Premiership title race. Having finally played the same number of games as their rivals, Rangers are now faced with the daunting task of closing the gap on Celtic to secure the title. Particularly concerning is the fact that their inferior goal difference means they not only need to win at Parkhead in the upcoming Old Firm clash on May 11, but also rely on other teams to do them a favor by holding Celtic back.
Former Rangers striker Loy has singled out captain James Tavernier, defender Connor Goldson, and midfielder John Lundstram as three key players who have struggled to perform when the pressure is on. Loy believes that despite their experience and leadership roles within the team, these players have consistently failed to rise to the occasion in crucial moments. He referenced Celtic’s collapse during the 10-In-A-Row season as evidence that even when Rangers managed to secure the title, the pressure seemed to get to these players.
“I don’t think that they have dealt well with the pressure,” Loy shared with BBC Scotland. “I think some of their stalwarts, Tavernier, Goldson, Lundstram, they’ve been in this position before and anytime that bit of pressure is applied they don’t seem to react well to it. They can’t seem to handle it all that well. They did one season, of course, when Celtic capitulated and were not anywhere close to them. But when it comes to this time of the season, where it’s just after the winter break or closer to the end of the season, they don’t seem to be able to handle it very well.”
As Rangers look ahead to the crucial fixtures remaining in the season, Loy’s concerns highlight the importance of these players stepping up and delivering when it matters most. Failure to do so could jeopardize Rangers’ chances of securing the title and allow Celtic to maintain their lead in the Premiership race. The pressure is on for Tavernier, Goldson, and Lundstram to prove their critics wrong and show that they have what it takes to handle the intensity of a genuine title race.
