Dutchman's dismissal an irritation but Kelly's heroics keep Gers in it

LIAM KELLY was the penalty save hero as 10-man Rangers fought furiously to hold Athletic Bilbao to a goalless draw in an absorbing Europa League quarter-final tie at Ibrox.

- BY RONNIE ESPLIN

Barry Ferguson made the big call to drop under-fire keeper Jack Butland for the Scotland international who sensationally saved a 79th minute spot-kick from substitute Alex Berenguer.

However, long before that - in the 13th minute - the former Gers captain watched defender Robin Propper sent off for a challenge on Inaki Williams, after originally being shown a yellow.

The home side valiantly held out against Ernesto Valverde's side through 12 added minutes and have plenty to play for in the second leg in Spain next Thursday night - and Ferguson will be pleased with the attitude and application of his players.