Rangers 4 St Johnstone 0: Saints comfortably beaten at Ibrox

St Johnstone were unable to take advantage of the few chances that came their way and were punished at Ibrox.

A first half opener from Malik Tillman was followed after the break by finishes from Antonio Colak, Scott Arfield and Tom Lawrence as Rangers picked up a comfortable three points on home soil.

Perth boss Callum Davidson was afforded the opportunity to name the same starting line-up that dramatically defeated Motherwell 2-1 last weekend.

Melker Hallberg again had the captain’s armband with usual skipper Liam Gordon having to settle for a spot on the bench.

Alex Mitchell, on loan from Millwall, retained his position in the heart of a central defensive three. He has been a standout performer since arriving.

There was, however, a scare for him on four minutes when his short back pass to Remi Matthews created a sense of panic. The goalkeeper’s kick struck Tillman and went behind for a goal-kick.

An early change was required when Cammy MacPherson hit the turf in the opening 10 minutes and his replacement resulted in a club debut.

Daniel Phillips, who signed a two-year deal during the week, was called from the bench to take his place in the middle of the park.

The Trinidad and Tobago international quickly showed off a couple of neat touches and passes, but would realise he would be in for a busy afternoon.

Rangers, as expected, had the majority of the ball but a quick Jamie Murphy break was soon a promising sight.

He slipped the ball to Graham Carey who, 25 yards out, went for glory with a left-footed strike. It was straight at Jon McLaughlin.

On 16 minutes, another chance when Murphy’s cross fell for Theo Bair deep inside the box.

The Canadian forward, despite being on the deck, connected sweetly but the ball fizzed by