Makhanya Shines as Rangers Thrash St Johnstone 4-0 to Close in on Celtic

South African defender Olwethu Makhanya enjoyed another positive outing in Scotland as Rangers delivered an emphatic 4-0 victory over St Johnstone in the Scottish Premiership on Saturday, October 24, 2026.

Makhanya featured for the full 90 minutes at Ibrox Stadium, helping Rangers secure a convincing win that strengthened their position in the title race and kept them firmly within touching distance of league leaders Celtic.

The comprehensive victory was an important response from Rangers after dropping points in their previous league fixture against Dundee. The Glasgow giants needed a strong performance to regain momentum, and they delivered with an impressive attacking display complemented by defensive discipline.

Kevin Kelsy led the charge with two goals, while Ryan Naderi and substitute Tochi Chukwuani also found the back of the net to complete a memorable afternoon for the home supporters.

Kelsy opened the scoring in the 29th minute after an excellent attacking move involving Minsu Kim and Naderi. Rangers continued to threaten going forward, although St Johnstone managed to avoid further damage before the interval.

The hosts returned for the second half determined to extend their advantage. Naderi made it 2-0 in the 61st minute after goalkeeper Toby Steward parried Kim's effort into his path, allowing the forward to finish from close range.

Just five minutes later, Kelsy struck again to put Rangers firmly in control. Chukwuani then completed the scoring in the 87th minute, putting the finishing touches on a dominant performance.

St Johnstone's afternoon became even more difficult when Kai Fotheringham received a red card following a VAR review, leaving the visitors with 10 men during the closing stages.

While Rangers' attacking players attracted much of the attention, Makhanya's contribution at the back was another encouraging development for South African football supporters following his move to Scottish football.

The defender's ability to complete the entire match offered further evidence of the trust placed in him as Rangers continue their Premiership campaign. His involvement in a clean-sheet victory will also provide encouragement as he seeks to establish himself further at the club.

The result moved Rangers to 23 points, leaving them just one point behind Celtic, who still have a game in hand. That means the title race remains finely balanced, with Rangers needing to maintain their consistency while hoping their Glasgow rivals drop points.

For Makhanya, the victory represents another valuable step in his European journey. Regular appearances in a competitive league can strengthen his development and potentially improve his prospects of attracting further recognition in South African football.

With Rangers now building momentum again, attention will turn to their upcoming fixtures as they attempt to sustain the pressure on Celtic.

The 4-0 triumph was more than just three points. It was a statement of intent from Rangers, with Makhanya playing his part as the Scottish giants continued their pursuit of Premiership glory.

Source https://x.com/iDiskiTimes/status/2114039217160647110