Kris Boyd has questioned Rangers’ Scottish Premiership title credentials after they were held to a 2-2 draw by Hearts at Tynecastle.
The result ended Rangers’ run of nine consecutive league victories and left them four points behind leaders Celtic, who also dropped points against Dundee United.
Boyd, the former Rangers striker, felt his old side were fortunate to escape with a point after being outplayed for long periods by a Hearts team that extended its unbeaten home record to 26 matches.
“They’ve stolen a point because, especially that second half, it’s got to be better,” Boyd said after the match.
Rangers took the lead in the 16th minute when Kevin Kelsy capitalised on a lapse from Laurent Mendy. Hearts responded early in the second half through Claudio Braga and Calvin Miller, before Olwethu Makhanya headed an equaliser in the 89th minute.
Derek McInnes, who left Hearts for Ibrox in June, was loudly booed by the home support as he emerged from the tunnel for his first return to Tynecastle.
But Boyd’s main criticism was directed at Rangers’ performance, arguing that title-winning sides must be able to control matches when under pressure.
“If you’re going to win a league, there has to be periods in games where you dominate that game,” he said. “When you’re suffering, put together a few passes that frustrate the opposition. Trust me, there is nothing worse than chasing a team that keep the ball for a period of time. Rangers don’t do that.”
Boyd said Rangers lacked players able to retain possession and draw opponents out, while praising Hearts’ pressing approach. He added that the visitors looked rushed and disjointed, with Emmanuel Fernandez appearing uncomfortable against the home side’s attacking players.
