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James Tavernier scores landmark goal as Rangers thrash Willem II

Hamilton Academical v Rangers – Scottish Premiership – Fountain of Youth Stadium
(Image credit: Jane Barlow)

James Tavernier slotted home his 50th Rangers goal after being restored to penalty duties in a rampant 4-0 Europa League win for the Light Blues over Willem II in Holland.

The Gers skipper was taken off spot-kicks by boss Steven Gerrard last season after failing to convert for the third time in five attempts.

Ryan Kent – who was brought down for the penalty – then prodded home the second before teeing up Filip Helander.

Connor Goldson put the seal on a crushing victory at the Koning Willem II Stadion as Gerrard’s team steamrollered their way through to the play-offs.

Ianis Hagi will now face his father Gheorghe’s old side Galatasaray when they visit Ibrox next Thursday.

Williem II had chances to defuse Gers’ hopes of progression but Adrie Koster’s Eredivisie outfit misfired twice early.

Allan McGregor was recalled to start ahead of Jon McLaughlin but there was some rustiness from the 38-year-old as he spilled Mike Tresor’s strike at Vangelis Pavlidis’ feet.

Miquel Nelom made it an easy call for Italian referee Maurizio Mariani as he sent the £7million man tumbling with a clip of the heels.

Willem II thought the danger was over as they cleared a Tavernier free-kick but Kent continued to be the Light Blues’ tormentor-in-chief as he swung over a perfect ball for the big Swede to thud past Ruiter.

Goldson was not to be outdone by his centre-back partner and added a fourth on 71 minutes as he glanced home from Tavernier’s out-swinging corner.