John McLean 42
G Henderson 72
Match Information
Attendance: 10,000
Referee: M Quinn (Bellshill)
Matchday: Saturday
Match Trivia
What a fight the Rangers had to save a point at Somerset Park. Had Ayr taken their chances in the first half the result would not have been in doubt. But centre-forward John McLean was not alert enough. In the first minute Hogg shot over the crossbar, and soon afterwards Kilpatrick centred a beautiful ball, but the three inside men failed to pick it up. For a few minutes the Rangers forwards endeavoured to put a different complexion on affairs, but their close play was ineffective against such ready tacklers as Smith, McLeod and Hogg. All that went Nisbet’s way was a soft shot from Cunningham. As a result of needle-work by the Auld Toon middle men, the Rangers’ defenders experienced a trying time. Gibson let go a fierce low ball. Robb failed to catch it, but the leather rebounded off his cheat. A few seconds later Willie’s gripped as well-directed ball from Kilpatrick. He was next called upon to fist clear from a free kick outside the penalty-area; and then all express from McLeod made Robb stagger. Morton relieved the pressure by scampering off. Nisbet left his goal, and Alan lobbed the ball over. McLeod dashed on and kicked out, but the Rangers claimed a goal. The referee ignored their appeal, however. Henderson had a hard drive blocked. So well-guarded was Nisbet that he did not receive a really dangerous shot. The Rangers rear were anything but comfortable. Still, they made few mistakes, but Dixon erred when he handled the ball. McLeod placed the free kick over to the left. James McLean centred magnificently. Robb did well to get his fists on the leather, which, however, trundled along to John McLean, who counted from close in. Rangers replied with a spirited raid, but after Muirhead had slashed the ball over Nisbet’s woodwork. Ayr again made the running. Thereafter the Ibrox fellows became more prominent. While the attack was never allowed to settle, Archibald, Cunningham and especially Cairns, did much to maintain a profitable period of aggression. The chance came when an Ayr defender spooned the ball. Archibald placed the corner beautifully, and in the scrimmage, Henderson tapped the ball home. Neither side could grumble at the result. Ayr’s backs and half-backs were splendid. Kilpatrick, McKenzie and James McLean were outstanding in front. John McLean has a lot to learn before he can lead the line effectively. Best for Rangers were Reid, Dixon, Muirhead, Cairns and Cunningham
