Michael Beale's best Rangers result yet over Betis but Scot free selection raises identity question - 5 talking points

Rangers got off the perfect start in the Europa League with victory at Ibrox over Spanish side Real Betis.

Abdallah Sima’s second half goal was enough to see off the La Liga outfit on opening night. And no-one could begrudge Michael Beale’s side the three points which got their Group C campaign off to a flyer. In a nervy first-half, Rabbi Matondo had a golden chance to put Rangers in front but was denied by Betis keeper Claudio Bravo.

Rangers improved after the break and were the dominant side for long spells. They got the goal they craved on 68 minutes through on-loan Brighton wide man Sima. James Tavernier’s cross was met by Sam Lammers at the back post, Kemar Roofe had a shot blocked - and after a goal-mouth scramble Sima stabbed the ball home. Towards the end, Rangers had to rely on Jack Butland to make two crucial saves and keep Betis at bay.

But it was a terrific night for Beale and his team who now sit top of the section with Sparta Prague who beat Aris Limassol 3-2 in Czech Republic. Here's five things we took from a big win in Govan.

This victory over Spanish side Real Betis has to go down as Michael Beale’s best result yet as a manager. Rangers’ opponents were sixth in La Liga last term and would have expected to win this Europa League group.

So for Beale to record a win - that was deserved on the night - is a major feather in his cap as a boss. He beat Ange Postecoglou’s Celtic convincingly at the end of last season but with the Hoops already champions, it was a Premiership dead rubber.

And in his previous job as QPR gaffer, he had a terrific run of results in the Championship before being lured back to Glasgow. But this is a different level. Beale was under pressure last night given Gers’ start to the season