'You let it slip and that hurts' - Rangers striker Dessers reflects on agonizing defeat to Man Utd

Cyriel Dessers expressed his frustration and pride after Rangers' narrow 2-1 defeat to Manchester United at Old Trafford in the UEFA Europa League. 

The Nigerian striker, who had scored a late equalizer for Rangers, was left devastated as Bruno Fernandes’ dramatic last-minute goal handed United all three points.

Speaking to Rangers TV after the game, Dessers reflected on the rollercoaster of emotions felt by the team. 

"At first, you feel that you are going to walk away with a point from Old Trafford and then you let it slip and that hurts,” Dessers said, his words filled with both disappointment and resolve. 

Despite the sting of conceding the last-minute goal, the striker praised his team's effort, especially in light of the challenging circumstances surrounding the match.

Rangers, who were already dealing with several injury concerns before the game, saw even more players pick up knocks during the course of the match. 

Dessers noted the resilience of the squad, particularly the young academy players who were called upon in the latter stages of the game.

Dessers praised the performance of these young players, emphasizing their determination and work ethic. 

"I think we can be very proud of the performance, to come here, with a team with a few injuries before the game and then we picked up some more during the game," Dessers explained. 

"Young guys had to come in and I think they did an unbelievable job, they put in a great shift in work ethic, courage, in playing forward."

The young players' involvement at such a high level, so early in their careers, was not lost on Dessers. 

He further acknowledged, "It is only their second or third game at this level and that is a big compliment,” recognizing the significant achievement of stepping up for the team in a high-pressure environment like Old Trafford.

Despite the final result, Dessers maintained that the team could take several positives from their performance. 

"We thought we had got our reward against a very good team but then it hurts with the result at the end,” he admitted.

Rangers’ European adventure remains alive, with the team still in a strong position ahead of their final group-stage match against Belgian side Union SG at Ibrox next Thursday. 

Dessers highlighted the importance of keeping their heads up as they look to secure at least a playoff spot in the competition.

Wale Adejumo

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