Rangers forward Kemar Roofe answered his critics emphatically with a brace in a comprehensive 4-1 win over Celtic yesterday afternoon.
Pundits were not impressed with the 28-year-old following the Light Blues’ shock exit to St Johnstone in the Scottish Cup but he was in fine form as the Gers sealed victory in the final Old Firm derby of the season.
Roofe improvised a smart finish with his chest for the opening goal, before heading home the third just before the hour mark. Supporters on Twitter were glad that the Jamaican responded to criticism with a timely reminder of his class:
Wasn’t sure when I seen his name on the team sheet. He proved me wrong!! Delighted for him!’
— HazleHeader (@HazleHeader) May 2, 2021
He is a very clever player who always gives a shift and knows where the goal is. Needs a prolonged period without injury next season ?⚪?
— David Inglis (@Dinglis10) May 2, 2021
Immense today I thought. They had no answer to him or Kent. Roofe’s moment killed them ?⚪?
— ninj. (@kenny47110) May 2, 2021
I was critical of him last week. But the desire for him to get in the box and onto that cross from Borna ?
— Stuart Ward (@sturicky1) May 2, 2021
Great to see my rant last week about selling Roofe, Tav & Kent was taken on board by all 3 and inspired them to that performance today.
I’m humble and will take no credit ?#WATP
— Brad Wesley (@NoFastYerLast) May 2, 2021
If he stays fit and gets back to his form he had in December time, very hard to leave out of the side, very clever player
— Fraser Simpson (@FraserSinpson) May 2, 2021
The biggest issue for Roofe is his fitness. There have never been any doubts about his quality but his tendency to pick up injuries have hampered his first season in Glasgow.
Even so, 16 goals in 34 appearances is not a bad return, and it will be hoped that he can improve further on those numbers next campaign.