Three takeaways from Hibs' 2-1 defeat by Rangers

Analysis from Ibrox as Easter Road side succumb to late winner from their hosts

Steven Whittaker impressed again in Hibs' midfield.

Spirited display

Jack Ross said afterwards he was proud of his players, and he was entitled to be. They were roasted 6-1 at the same venue on their last visit six months previously but on this occasion the Easter Road side stood tall and produced a spirited display which came close to earning a point against a Rangers side who came on strong after the break. Ultimately they were undone by the concession of goals from set-pieces at the end of both halves but in general play there were strong and committed performances from Hibs players all over the pitch. Steven Whittaker and Paul Hanlon merit a special mention for their contributions while Paul McGinn was also excellent in his first start.

Rocky blocks

Ofir Marciano has had some questionable moments in recent months but the goalkeeper was back at his dependable best at Ibrox. Although his long kick-outs often went straight down the throats of the opposition centre-backs, or even into the arms of opposite number Allan McGregor, his shot-stopping was on point whenever Rangers found a way through a resolute Hibs defence. The Israeli made an impressive early save to deny Alfredo Morelos and then made another four eye-catching stops after the break - two more from Morelos, one from Joe Aribo and one from Ianis Hagi - as Rangers turned the screw. If he can produce more displays like this, it should help Hibs keep the goals-against count down to a more respectable level.

No way back for Flo

Hibs fans have made their unhappiness with Florian Kamberi clear on social media in recent days since his comments after joining Rangers. The general consensus was that he wouldn't be welcome back at Easter Road when his loan deal expires. If the Albania forward was in any lingering doubt about how he is viewed by his parent club's supporters, he would have learned throughout the duration of this match that there is surely no way back for him as a Hibee. Although he wasn't eligible to play, he was in attendance at Ibrox in his Rangers tracksuit and couldn't have missed the regular chants of "f'*** Kamberi" from the away end throughout the evening.