Rangers leader responds to Olwethu Makhanya character claim after 'emotional' response

Rangers captain Dan Neil defended his team's character after Olwethu Makhanya's criticism following Wednesday's 2-2 draw with Hearts, ahead of Saturday's Premier Sports Cup semi-final against Aberdeen.

Dan Neil responded to centre-back Olwethu Makhanya's post-match comments after Rangers drew 2-2 with Hearts at Tynecastle on Wednesday. Makhanya had claimed the team "lacked character" and said Hearts showed more "desire" after going 2-0 up in the second half through goals from Claudio Braga and Calvin Miller. Makhanya's own last-minute goal salvaged the draw.

Neil dismissed the criticism as emotional reaction rather than a fair assessment, pointing to Rangers' character shown throughout the season. He acknowledged the team didn't handle Hearts' intensity well in the opening stages of the second half, particularly in the duels, but stressed this was an area they'd improved on in recent weeks.

The Rangers captain is focused on Saturday's Premier Sports Cup semi-final against Aberdeen at Hampden, viewing it as a crucial test and an opportunity to move towards winning silverware. Neil believes victory could provide momentum for the rest of the season, though he warned Aberdeen remain dangerous despite their recent poor form.