The league champions were comfortable in victory and even though they didn’t unfurl the league flag pre-match, they proved their champions credentials from the start.
However, as Rangers eased through the game it was the substitutes who added to the scoresheet after the opener.
Ianis Hagi fired high into the net after eight minutes to give Rangers the advantage from James Tavernier’s free-kick delivery, but the Romanian was an early withdrawal after half an hour with an ankle issue following a poor challenge from Livingston loanee from Liverpool Adam Lewis.
The change didn’t hold Rangers back, but did take time to adjust in remainder of the first half, but that changed in the second half.
Scott Wright, on for Hagi fired a volley over after the restart and though Rangers had plenty of the ball, the pre-season trait of lacking in the final third forced the home support to wait – but their patience was rewarded by Wright.
Attacking from the restart the winger set the tone for the season and struck what will become a goal of the season contender this early in the campaign with a half-volley, cutting across the ball with the outside of his boot that curled beyond Max Stryjcek and confirmed Rangers win.
His fellow substitute Kemar Roofe, on for Fashion Sakala who could not add to his debut strike, pounced on a loose ball in injury time to make it three.
Here is how the Rangers players rated in the victory. Next up is Malmo, away, on Tuesday.
9. Joe Aribo - 7
Returned to the first-team set-up after missing last week's friendlies and looked fresh with plenty of chances but couldn't convert. Photo: Craig Williamson - SNS Group
10. Ryan Kent - 7
In and out of the game but closely marshalled at all times. Unfortunate with a second half attempt on goal and cynically taken out by a late challenge before he could test Stryjek again. Photo: Dean Mouhtaropoulos
11. Fashion Sakala - 6
Frustrating afternoon for the new signing who couldn't get as many sights of goal as he would have expected - or benefitted from as he did against Real Madrid. Replaced by Roofe late on. Photo: KURT DESPLENTER
12. MANAGER - Steven Gerrard
Will be satisfied with the result, a comfortable performance and goals from two of his substitutes further proof of the strength in depth at his disposal. Photo: Alan Harvey - SNS Group