SPL round-up: Skipper Barry Ferguson gave Rangers a significant psychological boost by inspiring a 3-0 victory over Inverness on the opening day of the Scottish Premier League campaign.
The long trek north to the Highlands had been a daunting prospect for the Ibrox side, who endured two defeats and a draw against Charlie Christie's side last term.
Results of that ilk typified a dismal season for the Glasgow giants and this victory - thanks to a double from Ferguson and a Nacho Novo strike - will be seen as a signal of intent as Rangers attempt to mount a credible challenge for Celtic's SPL crown.
Gretna were shown the harsh realities of the top flight with an opening-day hammering by Falkirk at Fir Park.
Playing at Motherwell's home, where they will be housed until Raydale Park is upgraded, the SPL new boys were 2-0 down at half-time thanks to a Michael Higdon double.
Further goals from Pedro Moutinho and Russell Latapy after the interval sealed the fate of the Borders club who, on this evidence, face a long season of struggle.
Steven McGarry gave Mark McGhee a flying start to his career as Motherwell manager with a third-minute winner against St Mirren at Love Street.
McGarry scored the only goal against his former club after a slick move and Well could have gone further ahead before the break with David Clarkson hitting the bar and Jim Paterson missing a penalty.
The game grew scrappier with referee Eddie Smith handing out seven yellow cards and Motherwell held out reasonably comfortably to open their campaign in style.
A spirited showing from 10-man Dundee United saw the Tayside club beat Aberdeen 1-0 at Tannadice thanks to a dramatic 90th-minute goal from David Robertson.
United had Dubliner Willo Flood dismissed during the first half for two bookable offences.
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