Relived Michael Beale gave his players top marks for their fortitude to beat Aberdeen 3-2 at the death.

But the Englishman was less pleased with his new side's overall performance, rating it just five out of ten.

Rangers looked doomed to defeat for much of the second half after Leighton Clarkson's outstanding half-volley put them 2-1 in front but two injury-time goals from substitute Scott Arfield brought all three points to Ibrox.

And Beale admitted the showing was a mixed bag.

Beale told Sky: "I'm delighted with the result. 10 out of 10 for character and mentality. In the end, probably five out of 10 for performance. 

READ MORE: Five talking points as Rangers stun Aberdeen with late fightback

"First half performance we started well and were deservedly in front and then it was a poor goal to give away right on half time. We had possession and give away a free-kick. To be fair to the boy, it's a well-struck goal. We didn't start in the second half and were deservedly 2-1 down. 

"It was a great strike from the lad and then we were really anxious. We weren't playing well at all and made four changes then Scott Arfield has come up trumps."

And Beale reserved special praise for the 34-year-old midfielder who has made a career habit of grabbing important goals, admitting he's been unfortunate not to make the starting line-up of late.

He said: "I'm delighted for him because it's very harsh he's not started any game so far but that's what Scotty does, he gambles and gets in the box and he's come up trumps for us this evening."

And the manger was also effusive in his praise of returning defender Connor Goldson despite conceding his rearguard needs work.

"Scoring six goals in two games is certainly good," he admitted. "Obviously, the four against we need to work on. I thought Connor was great coming back in. I don’t think people realise how little he’s done to get back out there tonight and play 90 minutes. I was delighted to have him back.

"In patches we did things well but overall we’re still fragmented in the performance. There’s a long way for us to go to get to where I want us to get to. But so far, two games, six points, I’m not going to beat them over the head with it. I’ll just make them aware we’ve got some work to do."

Rangers Review:

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