Rangers sign off in style with thumping win at Falkirk

Rangers ended their Scottish Premiership campaign on a positive note with a convincing 5-2 victory over Falkirk, powered by a sensational hat-trick from Youssef Chermiti in an entertaining final-day clash.

Although the result had no impact on league positions, the match at Falkirk’s ground provided an action-packed conclusion to the season. Rangers had already secured third place in the table, while Falkirk, enjoying their return to the top flight, were assured of a respectable mid-table finish. Despite the lack of stakes, both sides approached the game with intent—Rangers eager to end a poor run of form, and Falkirk aiming to cap off their impressive season with a statement win.

The visitors made a lightning start, taking the lead within just three minutes. A flowing attack down the left flank ended with the ball being worked into the box, where Mikey Moore picked out Chermiti. The striker drove into a tight angle and confidently slotted the ball past the goalkeeper to open the scoring.

Rangers doubled their advantage almost immediately, just four minutes later, as Chermiti struck again. After a delivery into the box was partially cleared, he expertly controlled the ball on his chest at the edge of the area before unleashing a powerful volley. The effort left the goalkeeper with no chance and underlined his sharp attacking instincts.

Despite the early dominance, Rangers briefly allowed Falkirk back into the match. A defensive error proved costly when Emmanuel Fernandez played a back pass that was pounced on by Calvin Miller. Under pressure, Rangers goalkeeper Jack Butland failed to clear cleanly, allowing the ball to slip through and roll into the net, giving the home side a lifeline.

However, Rangers quickly regained control. Before the half-hour mark, Chermiti turned provider, drifting wide on the right before delivering a precise low cross into the box. Gassama met the pass, turned smartly past his marker, and finished clinically to restore the two-goal cushion.

Falkirk responded once more before half-time after VAR intervened. A handball inside the box by Mohamed Diomande led to a penalty, which Calvin Miller converted with confidence. His emphatic strike made it 3-2 at the break and briefly raised hopes of a comeback.

After the interval, Rangers once again asserted themselves early. A dangerous cross from Tuur Rommens found Chermiti in the box, and the striker rose highest to power a header into the net, completing his hat-trick in style and extending Rangers’ lead to 4-2.

Both managers used the remainder of the match to rotate their squads, but Rangers remained on top. The visitors continued to create chances and control possession, showing greater sharpness in attack despite the relaxed atmosphere of a season finale.

Late in the game, Rangers were awarded a penalty after Lewis Neilson pushed Chermiti inside the box. Substitute Thelo Aasgaard stepped up and calmly converted the spot kick to complete the 5-2 scoreline and wrap up a dominant attacking display.

Chermiti’s performance was the standout storyline of the match. The forward, who arrived at Rangers in a high-profile move last summer, has faced scrutiny over his consistency and adaptation. However, his hat-trick took his season tally to 15 goals, offering a reminder of his potential and finishing ability.

While Rangers showed attacking fluidity and energy, the match was also a reflection of a season that ultimately fell short of expectations. Their title challenge faded in the closing stages of the campaign, and recent poor form had raised questions about manager Danny Röhl’s future. This victory, however, offered a small measure of relief and allowed the team to end the season on a positive note.

Despite conceding twice, Rangers largely controlled proceedings and could have scored even more. Their attacking play was sharper and more confident than in previous weeks, suggesting that the team’s underlying quality remains intact even after a disappointing run.

For Falkirk, the defeat did little to overshadow what has been a successful return to the top division. Manager John McGlynn’s side have impressed throughout the season with their attacking approach and resilience, securing a solid position after promotion. While this match exposed defensive vulnerabilities, particularly against high-quality opposition, it does not significantly detract from their overall progress.

Their willingness to play openly against Rangers contributed to a high-scoring and entertaining contest, but also left gaps that Chermiti and company exploited effectively. McGlynn will likely view the season as a step forward in the club’s long-term development, despite ending on a losing note.

For Rangers, attention now turns toward rebuilding and preparing for a more consistent challenge next season. Squad changes are expected, with several players unlikely to remain at the club. The focus will be on strengthening key areas and turning sporadic performances like this into sustained success over an entire campaign.

In summary, Rangers’ 5-2 win over Falkirk provided entertainment, individual brilliance, and a positive ending to a difficult season. Chermiti’s hat-trick stole the spotlight, while both teams closed their campaigns with clear signs of what went right—and what still needs improvement heading into the next season.