Rangers' 'gambler' singled out for special praise after dramatic win over Aberdeen

Michael Beale has praised “gambler” Scott Arfield after his late double deep into additional time preserved his 100 per cent record as Rangers manager in the most dramatic fashion imaginable.

Rangers' Scott Arfield (L) and manager Michael Beale at full time after the win over Aberdeen.

Beale gave his side ten out of ten for character but five out of ten for performance after the 3-2 win over Aberdeen.

The new manager was staring his first loss since taking over at Ibrox straight in the face after the hosts had recovered to lead 2-1 after losing the opening goal to Fashion Sakala after 12 minutes.

That seemed a long time ago when Arfield produced his late double before heading off to celebrate in front of the jubilant travelling support.

There had been disapproval heard from the home fans when seven additional minutes were confirmed, and their worst fears were realised. Beale praised his players – particularly Arfield - for their belief but he warned that they cannot keep making it difficult for themselves. Rangers came back from 2-1 down to win 3-2 in Beale’s first match in charge against Hibs last week. But they didn't leave it quite as late as they did here.

“I don't want to be a party pooper to the players but they need to be better,” said Beale. “They showed ten out of ten for character and mentality especially at the end. I made the four subs and I asked us to gamble a little bit and Scotty has come up with two goals. We didn't look like we were together at times and we made some simple mistakes.

“I was delighted we got the win as it looked, for a long time, we would get beat. The players have gone through some trauma over the past few weeks. We gave away a silly goal and when they scored the second we really struggled. But sometimes fortune favours the brave. I would say it was ten out ten for mentality and character and five out of ten for performance. I’m delighted we won but Jim (Goodwin) must feel sick as his team patted really well.”

Beale singled out match-winner Arfield for praise after taking the disappointment of losing his place to Malik Tillman in his stride. The midfielder came on for Ryan Jack after Rangers had fallen behind seven minutes after half-time following Leighton Clarkson's strike.

“He has been training ever so well and the form of Malik has been keeping him out,” said Beale. “Malik did well for the third goal as well. Scotty is a boy that I love working with because he is super optimistic. There weren’t many in blue shirts in that last 10 minutes playing with optimism I didn’t feel. He is the one that was gambling, he was the one that was willing to make the run in the box and it shows you in moments you need players to step up. I am delighted for Scott because it must have been tough in the last two games to miss out. He has trained ever so well.”