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:
17. RW: Vaclav Cerny (Rangers) - 6
Slow start, but grew into the game as it wore on. Set up Mohamed Diomande well for a first-half drive from the edge of the area, but little else came off for him. Did test Craig Gordon with a drive, but will have hoped to have done better. Too often wasteful with the ball. | PA
18. RW: Alan Forrest (Hearts) - 5
Bright in the opening throws of the game, winning an early corner and challenged Jefte with his pace and directness. Faded in the second period though and was subbed off. | SNS Group Photo: SNS Group
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19. LW: Nedim Bajrami (Rangers) - 7
Played his part in the game's opening goal and was a threat throughout. Some strong driving runs from the Albanian offered a threat, while Jefte working well in tandem. | PA Photo: PA
20. CF: Lawrence Shankland (Hearts) - 6
Played in the number 10 role and provided Hearts with some really intelligent through balls. A little quiet in the second period. | SNS Group Photo: SNS Group