AliousPhilippe Clement labeled Rangers’ dismal 2-0 defeat to St Mirren at Ibrox as their worst performance since his arrival, admitting he was baffled by his team’s nervous and disjointed display.
Fans had arrived with optimism following reports of a potential multi-million-pound American-led takeover but were left stunned as a disciplined St Mirren side secured a historic victory. The visitors claimed their first win at Ibrox in over three decades, with second-half goals from Mikael Mandron and substitute Toyosi Olusanya sealing the shock result.
Clement, already under pressure after a Scottish Cup exit to Queen’s Park, saw his side fall 13 points behind league leaders Celtic, all but ending their domestic title hopes. Though they still have a Europa League last-16 clash with Fenerbahce to look forward to, another trophyless campaign looms large.
Clement’s Frustration: “I Didn’t See This Coming”
A second consecutive home defeat prompted many Rangers fans to leave before the final whistle, and Clement fully understood their frustration. He admitted his side was unrecognizable, lacking confidence and cohesion throughout the match.
“I understand the fans’ reaction,” he said. “This was by far the worst I’ve seen since coming here. It’s not what Rangers should be. The team was nervous in possession, weak in duels, and overall lacked the quality expected at this club.
“I didn’t anticipate this level of nervousness. It’s frustrating because it’s my responsibility to ensure the team is mentally prepared. Today, we weren’t.”
A Lack of Leadership and Team Spirit
Clement acknowledged his squad lacked leadership against St Mirren’s aggressive and organized approach. He was particularly disappointed by their failure to respond collectively after falling behind.
“In the past, when we’ve been behind, we’ve fought back as a team. Today, everyone played individually, which isn’t the Rangers way. Leadership is vital, and while it starts with me, it also has to be shared among the squad.”
St Mirren’s Landmark Victory
St Mirren boss Stephen Robinson marked his third anniversary at the club with a landmark triumph—his side’s second win over Rangers this season following a Boxing Day victory.
Robinson praised his squad’s tactical discipline and relentless pressing, which nullified Rangers and allowed St Mirren to control large portions of the game.
“We don’t have vast resources, but we have belief and work ethic,” he said. “We never felt under pressure—we played with bravery and created numerous chances.
“Our pressing was outstanding. You can have all the tactical ideas in the world, but the players executed them superbly. They outran Rangers at times, showing incredible hunger and desire.”
St Mirren’s spirited display left Rangers facing serious questions, with Clement now under mounting pressure to turn things around before the season slips further away.
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