DAMARCUS BEASLEY (RANGERS)

The News: Rangers pulled off a remarkable 3-0 against Ligue 1 champions Lyon. DaMarcus Beasley, starting his first Champions League match of the year, was integral to his team’s victory, notching an assist and a goal as Rangers made it two wins from two games in Group E.

Of Note: The Stade Gerland has been a stronghold for the French champions in recent years, but Rangers dispelled any lingering doubts about their pedigree for Europe’s premier competition with an assured and organized performance. The Glasgow club got off to an excellent start when DaMarcus Beasley’s inswinging corner was headed home with a thumping effort by Lee McCulloch in the 23^rd minute. For the rest of the first half, Lyon had the majority of the possession, but couldn’t capitalize on any of their opportunities. Brazilian playmaker Juninho came closest to leveling the score when he struck the bar from a trademark free kick on the stroke of halftime. In the second half, Rangers came out and hit Lyon for two quick goals. In the 48^th minute, the away side doubled their lead through Frenchman Daniele Cousin. Within four minutes they had increased the margain to three, after DaMarcus Beasley controlled a long ball from Cousin, rounded the keeper and slotted it home with his left foot. Though Lyon continued to press, and even finished the game with an astounding 32 shots and 14 corners, Rangers’ defense held tight and the game finished 3-0.

Up Next: Rangers have a tough few weeks ahead of them. This Saturday, in the Scottish Premier League, they face third place side Hibernian, who haven’t lost a match yet this year. After the international break, Rangers face their biggest rivals Celtic on the 20th, before hosting Barcelona in the Champions League on the 23^rd.