Balogun: Ugly Victories Just As Valuable

LEON BALOGUN would love Rangers to win with ‘sexy’ football but he insists the ugly victories are just as valuable.

Abdallah Sima netted the only goal in the 1-0 win over Hearts at Tynecastle to stretch gaffer Philippe Clement’s unbeaten run to 11 matches.

Speaking to RangersTV, he said: “Some people thought we played really well but I felt slightly different.

“I felt it was a mixed bag today, there were some really good bits, where we exploited Hearts and we should have scored a few more goals.

“There were a few moments where we had to hold our breath and Tav had an amazing clearance and Jack Butland has made an amazing save.

“You have to survive those moments, we weren’t as composed but the positives are we got the win.

“We should have scored more but overall we have great character building in the group.

“From where we have come from, we are having a good spell under the manager.

“I don’t feel like anyone feels like we can rest, we have to keep building the momentum.

“There will be games that are less pretty and not as sexy, but as long as we are winning them then everyone will be happy.”

Balogun believes the Light Blues could have won by more with Danilo twice denied from close range, while at the other end Jack Butland pulled off some vital saves.

The Nigerian international has impressed since being handed a recall by Clement but says no one in the dressing room is getting carried away.

He added: “Dani was frustrated as he wants to score goals. In those moments after these games it is about keeping his confidence up.

“We are going to have to go again as the next game is just round the corner.

“The last month has been a lot busier than before, but I have enjoyed it.

“I give everything, it is who I am. I am a fighter.

“I felt I could do better and I wasn’t my usual self but it is about getting over the line and we did that. I am hoping for more game time.

“We should be building confidence. If things don’t feel great, we have to remind ourselves what we are good at but look at what we can improve.

“You have to look over your shoulder and see what you have accomplished, while trying to keep the mistakes to a minimum.”


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