Sport 16-12-2004 Rangers Out of Europe who: Rangers what: Lose 0-2 to Auxerre in UEFA Cup on the night Middlesbrough go through top of their group where: Ibrox, GLASGOW when: Last night snippet: "Rangers came into last night`s Uefa Cup tie at Ibrox believing that a win would probably put them at the top of their Uefa Cup group," says The Independent. "But their home defeat to Auxerre - courtesy of two goals from Bonaventure Kalou - and Graz AK`s 2-0 home victory over AZ Alkmaar ensured their exit from the competition." "Guy Roux, the indefatigable godfather of European coaches, proved simply too knowing for [Rangers manager Alex] McLeish, whose attempts to outwit the venerable Auxerre chief backfired badly," says The Scotsman. "Rangers, for all their industry and commitment, had to bow to the superior technical gifts and tactical organisation of the visitors." But it was good news for Middlesbrough, who finished top of Group E last night after beating Partizan Belgrade 3-0. A top slot enhances their chances of a comfortable tie when the draw is made for the knockout stage on Friday, points out The Guardian`s Louise Taylor. Instead of playing a Champions` League drop-out side inn February, they will be paired with a third-placed Uefa group qualifier. [... more]

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