NEIL Alexander is so unfailingly upbeat he could, in all probability, have found a positive spin to put on events had the doomsday scenario prophesied by the Mayans come to pass last week.
Yet, it is easy to understand the goalkeeper's happiness with how Rangers are presently performing and his optimism that matters will only improve further in the coming months.
"The boys are doing the business just now and it is fantastic to be a part of that," enthused Alexander. "It is a joy at times to watch the football we are playing and the goals we are scoring. Long may that continue."
Certainly, the myriad problems which beset the Ibrox club in the opening weeks of the season were noticeably absent in what was, arguably, their most demanding league fixture thus far this term at the weekend. Concerns about the size of the squad, fears about the inexperience of several first-team players and worries about form away from home were not in evidence against Elgin City at Borough Briggs. Despite being deprived of the services of Ian Black, Kevin Kyle and Dean Shiels – and with Francisco Sandaza starting on the bench – Rangers cantered to a comfortable win over their nearest rivals.
The return of defenders Emilson Cribari, who was blameless for the goals the Glasgow club conceded, and Ross Perry from injury will increase further the options available to manager Ally McCoist. Fledglings such as Robbie Crawford, Chris Hegarty, Kyle Hutton, Barrie McKay and Lewis Macleod all played significant roles. Indeed, both Hutton and Macleod joined Andy Little and Lee McCulloch, who both bagged braces, on the scoresheet. Rangers have not faced many more demanding fixtures on the road during the 2012/13 campaign either. The three points were ground out on a pockmarked playing surface, while being buffeted by high winds and driving rain.
"It was our toughest game by a mile," agreed Alexander. "With the weather and the pitch, it was always going to be tough. They are a good team, too, and they made it hard for us. But we came through it. I thought the boys showed a great attitude."
The fact McCoist's side were twice pegged back after edging in front in the first half is no cause for deep concern. The finishes of first Daniel Moore and then Mark Nicolson were outstanding.
"We kept looking for goals, kept scoring goals and it was quite comfortable in the end," reflected Alexander.
The involvement of David Templeton, who returned to the team after recovering from ankle ligament damage earlier this month, has been instrumental in the resurgence. The winger makes a difference in both defence and attack. "Having two wide boys in Barrie McKay and David Templeton, who can run at defences and cause them problems, is great for the back four," explained Alexander. "It takes a lot of pressure off us. They are creating chances every time we are going up the pitch and looking dangerous."
Nine points clear with a game in hand, with a strong squad of players to choose from at last and with the youngsters appearing to have come of age, it is very difficult to see how Rangers can now be caught.
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