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Makhanya criticises Rangers' second-half display in Hearts draw

Rangers defender Olwethu Makhanya criticises his team's second-half display in the 2-2 draw with Hearts, citing a lack of character and fatigue. Celtic's Jota faces extended absence, Aberdeen's Cadden is injured, and Scottish coaches face disciplinary action.

By The UK Pulse Editorial Team·Source: BBC Sport··2 min read·How we work
The back page of The Courier on 291026

Olwethu Makhanya, who scored a late equaliser, has expressed frustration with Rangers' performance during the second half of Wednesday's 2-2 draw against Hearts at Tynecastle, according to BBC Sport. The defender believes the team demonstrated

a lack of character
and
came out leggy
after the interval, suggesting fatigue or a loss of intensity affected their display.

The 22-year-old centre-back's assessment highlights ongoing concerns about Rangers' consistency this season. Makhanya has impressed since his summer arrival, earning recognition from European clubs, but Wednesday's performance will have disappointed both him and manager Derek McInnes as the team continues to chase the title.

What is the situation at Celtic?

Celtic manager Martin O'Neill has signalled that winger Jota, 27, will require additional time before returning to regular first-team action following his recent recovery from a long-term injury. The Portuguese player's gradual reintegration into the squad reflects the club's cautious approach to his rehabilitation.

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O'Neill has suggested that the point secured in Wednesday's 2-2 draw with Dundee United could prove significant as the season progresses, indicating the manager views even draws as valuable results in the competitive Scottish Premiership.

What are Aberdeen's injury concerns?

Aberdeen face mounting injury problems ahead of Saturday's League Cup semi-final against Rangers, with right-back Chris Cadden, 30, potentially sidelined. Cadden limped off during Wednesday's 1-0 defeat to Falkirk, raising questions about the club's defensive resources for the knockout fixture.

What disciplinary action has been taken?

Scotland head coach Sebastien Pocognoli has received a warning from UEFA following a delayed kick-off during the recent 0-0 draw in Slovenia. Separately, Scotland Under-21 head coach Tony Docherty and assistant Steven Naismith have each received one-match touchline bans after a scuffle erupted during the team's victory away to Bulgaria.

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