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The National (Scotland)
The National (Scotland)
Sport
Christopher Jack

Michael Beale makes 'beauty contest' call after Rangers beat Killie

MICHAEL BEALE admits Rangers are still very much a work in progress despite extending his unbeaten run as manager to eight matches.

The Englishman saw his side come from behind to overcome Kilmarnock and ensure they remain nine points adrift of Celtic at the top of the Premiership.

Chris Stokes headed the hosts into an early lead but Rangers were level at the break after Alfredo Morelos converted a Fashion Sakala cross at close range.

Ryan Kent and Morelos struck after the break to ensure a late Joe Wright effort counted for nothing as Derek McInnes saw his side beaten on home soil.

It was another evening where the points were all that mattered for Rangers and Beale knows they must improve again after falling behind for the fourth time of his tenure.

Beale said: “It was never going to be a beauty contest because I don’t think the surface allows for that.

“Kilmarnock started on the front foot and we started the complete opposite. We didn’t heed the warnings the staff had given players and we found ourselves 1-0 down, with a mountain to climb. Again.

“I thought we recovered well, dominated possession and scored a very good goal. We had to organise a bit at half-time, we did, got ourselves 3-1 in front and maybe could have scored a couple more.

“Then in the last five minutes, again, we give away a sloppy set play. It’’s the first time they’ve been up there in the second half, the boy has a fantastic strike – and it becomes a bit less comfortable.

“I knew it was going to be a tough game on a tough surface, especially after 120 minutes at the weekend. I would have taken anything to get out of here with three points.

“So I’m not going to sit here and moan. There were moments I was pleased with and other moments that we need to work on. That’s clear to everybody."

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