Rangers Dominates St. Johnstone with Kelsy Brace and Min-su's Playmaking
Kim Min-su's influential performance sets the stage for a convincing 4-0 victory, despite the South Korean's continued absence from the scoresheet.
Rangers secured a commanding 4-0 victory over St. Johnstone, with Kevin Kelsy scoring twice and Kim Min-su delivering a standout performance that laid the groundwork for the dominant win. Despite not registering a goal or assist in his nine appearances for Rangers, Min-su's technical skill, direct play, and defensive awareness were pivotal throughout the match.
Min-su, moved to the left flank for this fixture, showcased the form that earned him a reputation with Girona. His contributions were evident in setting up Kelsy's first goal with a precise pass, creating the chance for Rangers' second goal through a rebound, and delivering the corner that led to Kelsy's second strike. The 20-year-old South Korean also demonstrated his commitment to defensive duties, notably tracking back and winning a crucial tackle early in the second half when the team appeared to be faltering.
Early in the match, Rangers established their dominance. Badredine Bouanani was particularly lively, seeing an early shot deflected wide after a neat turn. He later combined with Min-su for another effort that went wide. Kelsy also had a long-range shot spilled by St. Johnstone goalkeeper Toby Steward, who was kept busy throughout the first half.
The deadlock was broken in the 28th minute. Min-su initiated the attack from the left, cutting inside and delivering a well-weighted pass behind the defense. Ryan Naderi anticipated the pass and made a timely run to collect it, then found Kelsy at the back post for the opening goal. Shortly after, Min-su struck the post with a shot after being set up by Kelsy, hinting at the potential for a larger scoreline.
However, St. Johnstone had a clear chance to equalize before halftime when Josh Fowler broke through on goal, but he put his effort into the side netting. The visitors made several substitutions at halftime, introducing Kai Fotheringham, Danny Schmidt, and Bozo Mikulic, and came out with renewed intent. Fotheringham missed a chance, and Enes Alic had a shot tipped over by goalkeeper Ivor Pandur. Dujon Sterling and Pandur also made key defensive interventions for Rangers.
Rangers extended their lead in the second half. Min-su's shot from the left forced a save from Steward, and the rebound fell to Naderi, who scored from close range. In the 66th minute, Min-su's corner from the left deflected off Olwethu Makhanya, allowing Kelsy to score his second of the game. The match took a further turn when Fotheringham was sent off for serious foul play following a VAR review.
Substitute Tochi Chukwuani completed the scoring late in the game. While Kelsy was named Man of the Match, Min-su's all-around contribution was highlighted as the most significant factor in Rangers' comprehensive victory. The starting lineup, featuring Min-su on the flank and Bouanani on the right, was considered by some to be the strongest available to manager Derek McInnes.