Rangers defeat Aberdeen 2-1

The Rangers put pressure on Celtic in the race for the SPL championship with a 2-1 victory over Aberdeen at Ibrox. The victory provides the Gers a three point lead on Celtic with the defending champions facing Hibernian Sunday afternoon, however the goal production is certainly disappointing given the goal differential could prove to decide the final position.

From the disappointing mid-week draw to Hibs, Walter Smith included Saša Papac, Kyle Lafferty and Kenny Miller into the starting eleven. After a series of fine attacking advances by the Gers, Charlie Mulgrew was shown a straight red-card for violent conduct or at least intent for violent conduct because contact was minimal with Kyle Lafferty likely pursuing his SAG card shortly given his brilliant thespian abilities. Presuming the calls needed to be "evened-up" Madjid Bougherra was sent off five minutes before the break in another harsh red-card. After the restart, with the referee assured he was the centre of attention, the Rangers continued to with a modest edge in momentum but were far from finding the mark. At the hour Barry Ferguson returned to the fold coming in for Pedro Mendes and only five minutes later the Gers had the lead as Richard Foster redirected Kenny Miller's cross in as a own goal. Two minutes later, Nacho Novo's corner was sent in by Kenny Miller to provide the Rangers a goal margin. However in dire need to closing down Celtic lead in goal differential, the Gers were denied by Aberdeen and with thirteen minutes remaining in regulation Michael Paton accepted Gary McDonald's provision before sending in.

The Rangers await next Sunday's final match against Dundee United with a very likely goal outpouring needed.