Source: PA
Smith realistic after Valencia defeat
Rangers manager Walter Smith admits progressing to the last 16 in the Champions League is now "a big ask" after suffering their first defeat of the campaign in Valencia.
The Scottish champions had headed into the clash in the Mestalla in second spot in Group C and with hopes of qualifying from the section with leaders Manchester United.
But a double from Roberto Soldado and a late strike from substitute Tino Costa sealed a 3-0 win for the Spaniards which allowed them to leapfrog Smith's men and resurrect their own campaign.
"Finishing second is a big ask now," admitted Smith.
"Valencia and Manchester United were the two favourites at the start of the section.
"Now Valencia have a situation where they have a home game against Bursaspor to effectively qualify for the knock-out stages.
"No disrespect to Bursaspor but I'd put Valencia as favourites for that game. That means it'll now be difficult for us. We need results to go our way but we'll still give everything in the last couple of games."
