Fraser Aird's first-half finish has given Rangers something to smile about following a difficult week, with Ally McCoist's men holding a 1-0 half-time lead over Livingston at Ibrox in the Scottish Championship.

Livingston were the first side to threaten as Daniel Mullen found himself with space inside the box, but Steve Simonsen produced a good stop down low at his bottom corner.

Rangers moved ahead with what was their first real chance of the game when Darren McGregor picked out Aird, who tucked home into the bottom-left corner.

The hosts sought to double the advantage despite limited chances in front of goal, with both Ian Black and Aird coming close with attempts from distance.

Jordan White should have levelled the scores for Livingston right on the stroke of half time, but his header from close range was somehow kept out by the lightning reactions of Simonsen.