Boyd sets up a generous send-off for McLeish

Ewan Murray at Ibrox
Monday May 8, 2006
The Guardian

When Alex McLeish arrived at Ibrox in December 2001 as the 11th Rangers manager he was greeted by the typical gathering of adoring fans outside the stadium. Four-and-a-half years and seven trophies on, he departed yesterday with a similarly rousing reception from supporters despite what has been a tough final season in charge.

McLeish admitted being "overwhelmed" at the level of support he received from the near 50,000 crowd at full-time and the audible message of thanks towards the manager was somewhat surprising. After all, a few months ago Rangers fans were calling for him to be sacked. "I am very humbled and very honoured," said McLeish of the reaction from fans. "It was a moment I'll never forget. It's not really my scene, going out and bowing or taking applause, but it felt appropriate today and I was very touched by the response."

McLeish insists there is no chance of him returning to a dug-out elsewhere before the start of next season but it seems improbable his services will not be coveted, particularly in England. Since joining from Hibernian, the former Aberdeen and Scotland defender has established himself as a manager who can produce winning teams against a backdrop of stringent financial cuts.

Two goals from Kris Boyd, who at £400,000 has arguably become McLeish's finest value-for-money purchase during his tenure, sealed victory over a distracted Hearts in what was ultimately a meaningless match.

Hearts' interim manager Valdas Ivanauskas contributed to a winning send-off for McLeish by making nine changes from the team that sealed second place and entry to the Champions League qualifying stages, by beating Aberdeen last week. The visitors gave a rare start to Mirsad Beslija, their record signing who has been conspicuous by his absence since joining for £850,000 from Racing Genk in January, and several key players were rested for the Scottish Cup final.

The travelling support were in party mood and only the inspired form of the Rangers goalkeeper Ronald Waterreus ensured they did not have more to celebrate. Waterreus, who is almost certain to depart this summer, saved brilliantly from Michal Pospisil and Rudi Skacel. Rangers capitalised on their goalkeeper's display 10 minutes before the interval as the prolific Boyd buried a free header from a Peter Lovenkrands corner low into Steve Banks's net. Boyd's second goal arrived from close range after a pin-point cross from Gavin Rae.

Thereafter McLeish, along with his departing backroom team of Andy Watson and Jan Wouters, took centre stage at Ibrox for the final time.

Man of the match Ronald Waterreus (Rangers)

Taken from the Guardian/Observer