Motherwell 1 Rangers 2: How the Steelmen players rated after running Gers close in semi-final

Motherwell crashed out of the Premier Sports Cup after a valiant attempt to knock out the defending champions at Hampden.

It was a backs-to-the-wall display in the second half after taking a first half lead through Andy Halliday, but they couldn't stop the Philippe Clement's men from mounting a comeback after the break, crushing fans' dreams of a return to the national stadium next month to face Celtic.

The Steelmen made two changes from the midweek win over Dundee United with the injured Stephen O'Donnell ruled out and Tom Sparrow dropping to the bench. Andy Halliday came in alongside Liam Gordon, who returned to the squad as his two-game suspension only applies to league matches.

Here's how the Steelmen rated:

ASTON OXBOROUGH - 7

Spilled an early strike from Vaclav Cerny in the opening minute, but redeemed himself with a great stop to deny Connor Barron in the first half. Helpless to stop Dessers' equaliser. Made a fine stop to touch a Jefte strike onto the post in the second half. Also denied Cerny with a stunning stop down to his right. But for him, Rangers might have enjoyed a more handsome result.

MARVIN KALETA - 6

Brilliant defending in second half to match Cerny for pace and stand up well to deny him a chance in the box. Lung-busting run down the right early in the second half didn't get the rewards it deserved as Maswanhise lost possession. Replaced by Shane Blaney after picking up an injury.

DAN CASEY - 7

The hero from Motherwell's last win over Rangers put in a solid display. A superb last-ditch tackle midway through the second half to deny Nedim Bajrami a certain goal before he eventually found a way through. Celebrated th block like a goal.

LIAM GORDON - 6

The two-time silverware winner with St