Gers draw blank but edge closer
by setantasports.com staff, 04 May 2008
Hibernian and Rangers fought out a goalless draw at Easter Road but it was a result that did no favours for either side.
Hibs started with an attacking line-up knowing that a win would put them in pole position in the race for a place in next season's UEFA Cup.
Dean Shiels was put through as early as the fourth minute, but was ruled offside in what turned out to be the wrong decision.
Hibs continued to play in the fashion we have come to expect from them, with lots of neat interplay being let down by the lack of a killer pass, which would breach the Gers defence.
Nacho Novo went close for The Gers early on but, just when it looked like he would get his shot away, Kevin McCann made an excellent block to deny the midweek hero.
The first real opportunity of the match came in the 38th minute, Carlos Cuellar rose to head the ball down at goal but, in what seemed like slow motion, Andy McNeil still had time to turn the ball round the post.
Three minutes later Rangers had another opportunity. Kirk Broadfoot did well to get to the byline and his cut-back found Novo, but the little Spaniard's shot was blocked well by Rob Jones.
Hibs had their first chance just before half-time. Shiels cross was punched by Neil Alexander straight on to the head of Ross Campbell, but his instinctive effort looped over.
Rangers started the second half the better side and had the ball in the net in the 54th minute. Cuellar sent a header towards goal, but Daniel Cousin's final touch came from an offside position and the goal was rightly ruled out.
By now the visitors were well on top and only a fine save by McNeil prevented them from taking the lead. McCann's clearance came back off a Rangers player to set up Barry Ferguson and it was his shot that was saved.
Hibs had their first shot on target in the 62nd minute and it was almost a decisive one. Filipe Morais found space just outside the box and his great effort was turned over the bar by Alexander.
With 12 minutes to go Rangers threw on Kris Boyd in place of Sasa Papac as they looked for a vital three points in the race for the title. Minutes later, Kevin Thomson was almost an unlikely hero, but his free-kick flew just wide.
With just moments to go, David Weir sent a header over the crossbar as the two teams shared the points in what was a poor match.