Rangers’ pre-season issues, both on and off the pitch, hinted at their vulnerability as they arrived in the capital.
Just two minutes into the match, Lawrence Shankland, a striker linked with Rangers for months, tested Jack Butland with a strong shot. This set the pace for the game, with James Penrice forcing Butland into a fine near-post save, Gerald Taylor setting up Shankland for a deflected effort, and Yan Dhanda hitting the crossbar.
Rangers eventually found their rhythm. Connor Barron, the only new summer signing in the starting lineup, had a low shot saved by Zander Clark, and Cyriel Dessers’ flick found the net’s roof before his shot was blocked by the goalkeeper’s legs.
After the break, Dessers hit the bar and post with a header, and Clark saved a powerful Tom Lawrence volley. Shankland nearly scored with a low shot, and James Tavernier narrowly avoided an own goal. Despite end-to-end action in the final minutes, neither team could break the deadlock.
Taylor Shines in Hearts’ Adjustments
Hearts were active in the summer transfer market, with Naismith adding new signing Malachi Boateng from Crystal Palace just hours before the game.
Hearts started strong against Rangers, and although the visitors improved and had their chances in the second half, it was the hosts who finished stronger due to their bench strength. Taylor stood out as the most impressive performer, giving Oscar Cortes a tough time before the Lens winger left the game injured and frustrated.
