Makhanya plays 90 minutes as Rangers beat St Mirren 2-0

Bafana Bafana defender Olwethu Makhanya was on the field for the whole match as Rangers beat St Mirren 2-0 in the Scottish Premier League on Saturday night, according to iDiski Times.

The result cuts the gap to league leaders Celtic to a single point. Celtic are on 28 points after 12 matches.

How the match unfolded

Rangers were the visitors in Paisley and took the lead in the 18th minute through a penalty from Ryan Don Naderi. Dan Neil then beat Jacob Chapman in the 61st minute to make it 2-0.

The 22-year-old Makhanya completed all 90 minutes at the back, in what iDiski Times described as another impressive performance from the South African.

Makhanya’s start at Ibrox

Makhanya joined Rangers from Major League Soccer side Philadelphia Union in a reported €3.5-million transfer. He has since made 17 appearances for the club in all competitions this season.

He played a part in Rangers reaching the Scottish League Cup final, where they beat Aberdeen 1-0 in the semi-final. He also scored his first goal for the club, an equaliser in a 2-2 draw away at Hearts.

Before his move to Europe, the former Stellenbosch FC centre-back played in the South African top flight.

What it means for South African fans

For Bafana Bafana supporters, Makhanya’s regular game time at a major Scottish club is encouraging. A national team defender who is playing every week at a high level is good news for the squad.

Rangers’ result also keeps the Scottish title race tight. With only one point separating them from Celtic, matches involving Makhanya’s side should carry plenty of interest for South Africans following the league.

This story is based on reporting by iDiski Times.