Borna Barisic has been one of Steven Gerrard’s best players this season. In his 27 games, Barisic has assisted 13 goals and scored two.
These statistics would be impressive for a midfielder, let alone a full-back. His performances have resulted in the chatter of a potential transfer and Gerrard trying to tie the Croatian down to a long-term contract.
But many fans think Barisic’s turn of form has a definitive starting point. When Rangers Culture posted a clip of Barisic scoring a stunning freekick against St. Mirren earlier in the season, these fans thought it was the start of his Rangers career. They think the goal gave him the confidence to go on and put in solid performances week after week for the Gers. One fan even calls it one of the most important moments of the season so far.
https://twitter.com/WillieS38914473/status/1218148418708819969
The moment it all changed for Borna bear Barisic. An incredible footballer and at 27 years old, hopefully we can keep him for the best part of his career. He could easily lock down that position for another 3-4 years. pic.twitter.com/J1Tbm2rFNQ
— Me Oh Me Oh Me Oh My (@MeOhMeOhMeOhMy) January 17, 2020
imagine that didn’t go in, would Flanagan still be left back?
— Murray (@MurrayMac1872) January 17, 2020
This was the turning point for him. Confidence shot through the roof and the game play has followed
— Stuart Bain (@Baindo1) January 17, 2020
Not only did it deliver 3 points, but it helped give Barisic the confidence to become the player we all knew he was
— Staunch Arthur (@StaunchA) January 17, 2020
Could be one the most important moments of the season. For the 3 points and for what it has done for Borna.
— Kevin Campbell (@mev1508) January 17, 2020
Would Barisic have been such a success if the St. Mirren freekick didn't go in
Yes
No
Others are stunned at how beautiful the freekick actually was. They think Barisic has a wand of a left foot.
Barisic looking at his left peg after that went in! Been a different player since pic.twitter.com/BSAgCG8OKC
— Ross Felvus (@RossFelvus96) January 17, 2020
Definition of wand https://t.co/vBUZJwmwwU
— JB (@JaeBaxter) January 17, 2020
What do we think?
If it was this moment that sparked Barisic’s Rangers form then who knows what would have happened if the shot drifted wide. Had he missed, perhaps Barisic wouldn’t have assisted as many goals as he has? And if he didn’t do that, who knows how many wins would have turned into draws and draws into losses?