Rangers moved level on points with Celtic at the top of the Scottish Premiership as a Todd Cantwell goal saw them grab a deserved 2-1 victory over Aberdeen at Ibrox.
Rabbi Matondo handed the Gers the perfect start when he blasted home after just seven minutes and the home side were largely in the ascendancy throughout the first 45 but were pegged back when Dons hotshot Bojan Miovski levelled against the run of play seconds before the half time whistle.
Relentless pressure from the home side would ensue in the second period and their dominance would show through thanks to the excellent Cantwell, who continued his scoring streak to fire them ahead in front of the Copland Road on 71 minutes and seal a vital three points in the title race.
With the seconds ticking down, Rangers substitute Dujon Sterling was given a straight red card for a tackle on Jack Mackenzie. A lengthy VAR check took place but referee Don Robertson stuck with his original decision which saw Rangers play the remaining eight minutes of stoppage time with 10 men.
The win puts Philippe Clement's side level on points with Old Firm rivals Celtic for the first time since the Belgian's arrival with just a single goal separating the sides ahead of the Hoops clash with Hibs tomorrow night.
Unused subs: Robby McCrorie (GK), Borna Barisic, Leon King, Scott Wright, Nico Raskin.
Here’s our post-match Rangers player ratings:
5. Ridvan Yilmaz - 6/10
Always offered an overlapping option from full back but his final ball wasn't as good as he or his team would have liked. Solid defensively though. | Getty Images Photo: Getty Images
6. John Lundstram - 7/10
Absolutely pivotal for Rangers and is vital to Clement in his Rangers set up. Another game where he largely dictated from the centre of the park at Ibrox. | SNS Group Photo: SNS
7. Tom Lawrence - 8/10
A good performance from the former Derby County man who linked up well with Todd Cantwell in midfield. Constantly probed and almost scored a much deserved goal just after the hour mark. It was also his effort that created that much needed second for Rangers. | Getty Images Photo: Getty
8. Todd Cantwell - 9/10
Tireless work rate and was Rangers most creative outlet all night as he buzzed around the pitch looking to ignite Ibrox. Deserved his goal more than anyone. Outstanding again. | SNS Group Photo: SNS