Rangers draw 1-1 with Dundee United in season opener

Rangers began their Scottish Premiership campaign with a disappointing 1-1 draw against Dundee United at Tannadice on Friday, July 31, 2026, spoiling the competitive debut of new manager Derek McInnes. The result extends the Glasgow club's winless run on opening day to four consecutive seasons.

The hosts took the lead seven minutes before halftime through a debut goal from Lachlan Rose. The Australian striker finished a well-worked move that involved fellow new signings Jesse Randall and Zac Sapsford, capitalizing on a defensive lapse to squeeze his shot into the bottom corner. Rangers, who fielded several summer signings including Lawrence Shankland, Ivor Pandur, and Cameron Devlin, struggled for cohesion in the first half and created few clear chances.

McInnes responded with two halftime substitutions, introducing Dan Neil and Youssef Chermiti. The changes had an immediate impact, improving Rangers' tempo and leading to the equalizer in the 56th minute. A poor headed clearance from Dundee United defender Michael Forbes fell to Thelo Aasgaard, who took a neat touch before thundering a left-footed finish past goalkeeper Jack Walton.

Despite gaining momentum, Rangers failed to...