Rangers have started the season with a win after beating St Mirren 3-1 in the first match of the Scottish Championship season at Ibrox.
The home side broke the deadlock with less than five minutes on the clock as a high ball forward fell for Lee Wallace, who smashed it into the roof of the net from close range.
Rangers continued to enjoy the majority of the possession in the early stages of the match, with James Tavernier and Barrie McKay both having chances to add a second.
It was Wallace who doubled the lead midway through the opening period though as Jason Holt picked the defender out with a through-ball, setting him up to coolly slot under the keeper.
St Mirren pulled one back just three minutes later though, as on-loan Celtic striker Paul McMullan broke down the right before setting up Cameron Howieson, who tapped the finish past Wes Foderingham for the visitors.
Mark Ridgers had to remain alert in the St Mirren goal as the interval approached with Rangers looking to restore their two-goal cushion, but he was able to deny Rob Kiernan, while watching Martyn Waghorn fire over.
St Mirren had a chance to get back on level terms soon after the restart as Tavernier fouled McMullan in the penalty area, giving the visiting side a spot kick.
However, Stephen Thompson went for power over accuracy as he tried to force the ball past Foderingham, only to blast the ball over the crossbar.
Tavernier was involved down the other end just a couple of minutes later as Rangers pushed for a third, with the defender cutting inside to set up Andy Halliday, but he could not get the better of Ridgers.
Waghorn rounded a couple of defenders before attempting to curl the ball in from the edge of the box, but was unable to test the keeper, while Nicky Clark forced Ridgers into a diving stop moments later as Rangers continued to dominate.
Halliday had another opportunity with just over 10 minutes remaining when he lined up a free kick 25 yards out, but it did not dip enough to squeeze under the crossbar.
Waghorn and Nicky Law both had chances to put the win beyond doubt for the home side inside the final five minutes, while Clark saw his header gathered with just a few minutes to play.
There was enough time for Rangers to seal the victory though as Dean Shiels found himself with space in the box with just moments remaining, forcing Ridgers into a double save before sending the ball across the line at the third time of asking.
Sian Cowper
