Giovanni van Bronckhorst saluted Rangers for showing character in overcoming Motherwell - but admits they must improve "in every area".
The Ibrox side returned to winning ways following their Champions League bruiser against Liverpool in midweek as they battled to a much-needed three points at Fir Park. Malik Tillman 's solo stunner and a John Lundstram header put Rangers in control after a dismal first-half but Stuart McKinstry's dipping free-kick from wide made the closing stages that bit more nervy for Van Bronckhorst 's side.
But they held on to close the gap on Celtic at the Premiership summit back to just two points, with their manager encouraged by how they held fast after Motherwell pulled a goal back as time ticked away. He told Sky Sports: "Well... it's three points. It was vital for us to win this game. In the first-half, we started well and had two great chances to score and we didn't. After that, we weren't in the game as we wanted. Second-half we did much better.
"We started brightly and scored two goals, which will give you a cushion. Then they made it 2-1 - a free-kick from that side into the top corner, it happens maybe only once out of 30 or 40 tries. After that we made sure we battled for the win.
"I'm really pleased with the points today."
Despite a crucial victory, Van Bronckhorst admits Rangers need to be better all over the pitch if they are to rediscover their swagger. Asked where they must improve, he replied: "Well I think in every area. The performance we had today overall wasn't as convincing as previous games. We need to improve that.
"The build-up in the first-half, we couldn't get into the next phase because weren't quick enough or trying to get a free man in midfield. We were too slow in our passing and movement. Second-half we did much better."