How Penrice's dream debut helped ignite McInnes' Rangers reign

What the report says

BBC Sport Football reports that James Penrice made an immediate impact on his Rangers debut as Derek McInnes secured his first win as manager. The left-back, who joined from AEK Athens on loan, had arrived during a four-match winless opening to the season and initially drew a modest reaction from some supporters. With first-choice left-back Tuur Rommens injured, Penrice was given a chance and used it to help transform the mood around Ibrox.

In Rangers’ 5-1 home win over St Mirren, Penrice set up Djeidi Gassama with a quick counter-attacking move before scoring himself soon after, both coming in the second half. BBC Sport described his performance as a major factor in a much-improved display after a shaky opening period, with Rangers leading 2-1 at the break but finishing strongly. The result also ended Rangers’ frustrating start to the campaign and lifted pressure around McInnes’ early reign.

McInnes, who previously worked with Penrice at Hearts, praised the defender’s energy, enthusiasm and decision-making, while also stressing that the club should not get carried away after one match. Former Rangers striker Steven Thompson said the performance and result should give the club a lift. More broadly, the report suggests Penrice could become an important option for Rangers in the weeks ahead, especially while injuries affect the squad.