Cyriel Dessers’ third goal in a week handed Rangers an uninspiring 1-0 win over Hearts at Ibrox in the Scottish Premiership.
In a game devoid of any real quality, the game was decided as early as the sixth minute when the Nigerian forward deflected James Tavernier’s shot into the net via a Hearts defender following neat work down the left between Jefte and Nedim Bajrami.
That would be as good as it got at for the home side though, with chances coming and going for Hearts. Costa Rican international Kenneth Vargas was particularly guilty of missing two guilt-edged opportunities to level, but it was the home side that would hang on for a necessary three points.
The result keeps Rangers in third, nine points behind both Celtic and Rangers, while Hearts remain in 11th place, just one point ahead of basement club Hibs.
Here is how The Scotsman rated each player out of ten for their display at Ibrox:
13. CM: Nicolas Raskin (Rangers) - 8
Probably Rangers' best player on the night. Won more duels than any other player on the pitch (9) and provided some good defensive work to stop Vargas having a chance on 20 minutes. Rangers MVP today. | SNS Group Photo: SNS Group
14. CM: Malachi Boateng (Hearts) - 7
Was a strong presence in the centre of the park for the visitors and completed the bulk of his passes. Had a 90% passing success rate. Good performance. | SNS Group
15. CM: Connor Barron (Rangers) - 6
Tidy enough and recycled the ball well for Philippe Clement's side. Smart through ball almost saw Vaclav Cerny smash home. One of Rangers' better performance and was bizarrely subbed off. | SNS Group Photo: SNS Group
16. LW: Blair Spittal (Hearts) - 5
A quiet afternoon for a player usually so effective for the Jambos. | SNS Group