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Daily Record
Daily Record
Sport
Gavin Berry

Gio van Bronckhorst insists 'brave' Rangers made a statement with Lyon draw as he gears up for Hearts test

Giovanni van Bronckhorst reckons his “brave” Rangers team sent out an early message in his tenure by ending Lyon’s perfect Europa League Group A record.

The Light Blues earned a draw as Scott Wright’s deflected opener was cancelled out by a Calvin Bassey own goal.

Van Bronckhorst was delighted with how his team performed against the French cracks as he continues to implement his style since succeeding Steven Gerrard.

And after a quick turnaround the Dutchman says his team will be ready to go for a tough trip to Hearts on Sunday - 24 hours before they find out their Europa League knockout stage opponents.

Van Bronckhorst said: “I’m very happy with the message we showed as a team. We came not to defend but to play our game and develop our team.

“It’s only my fifth game in charge with this team so I’m happy they are picking up my style of play and in that aspect I’m very happy the performance.

“We’re very happy with the performance, especially away from home in Europe which can be very tough.

“We faced a tough opponent but we were very brave. We liked to play a possession game from the back and many times we had the right solutions and overall I’m really happy.

“We were dominant at times but in the second half didn’t create so many chances in the end with dangerous crosses but Lyon had some chances.

“We are flying straight back to Scotland and only have two days to prepare for the game but we’re used to it.

“The last games were followed by only two days of rest so we’ll do everything we can. Friday will be recovery and Saturday we will prepare tactically for Hearts.

(AFP via Getty Images)

“It's a tough game away but I’m confident about my team and the performance we had today. It’s a case of resting really well and be prepared for Sunday.”

Van Bronckhorst was up against Feyenoord mentor Peter Bosz and ensured his side couldn’t finish with a 100 per cent group record.

But the Gers boss said: "I don’t feel sorry for Peter because I’m the coach for Rangers and want the best result for my team - I’m just happy we’re both through to the next stage and I wish him all the best against Lille.

“I want him to be successful on Sunday. I’m rooting for him have a good result against Lille.”

We’ve teamed up with LiveScore to invite fans to vote for their favourite results - the games which were much more than a score. Vote for the match that mattered to you here

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