Jelavic stunner keeps Gers in touch

RANGERS closed the gap on Clydesdale Bank Premier League leaders Celtic to two points with a 1-0 victory over Aberdeen thanks to a stunning overhead kick from Nikica Jelavic.

The Dons went close through Sone Aluko and Josh Magennis before the Croatian struck with a sublime finish in the 22nd minute.

The home side created a number of chances in the second-half but were unable to find away past Rangers goalkeeper Allan McGregor as they slumped to a fourth successive defeat.

The Dons looked likelier to find the opener early on but it was Jelavic who was on target in spectacular fashion in the 22nd minute.

Kyle Lafferty played the ball into the path of Jelavic — and his overhead kick gave Langfield no chance. Midfielder Ness picked up the first booking of the evening for a poor tackle on Chris Maguire as the match became an increasingly ill-tempered affair.

Maguire almost grabbed an equaliser for the Dons 10 minutes after the restart when he robbed Steven Whittaker of possession before curling an effort wide of the Rangers goal, while Vernon saw an effort blocked on the line by Lafferty.

ABERDEEN: Langfield, Young, Diamond, Considine, Smith (Robertson 57), Maguire, Jack, Milsom, Aluko, Vernon, Magennis (Blackman 81).

RANGERS: McGregor, Wylde (Diouf 64), Weir, Whittaker, Papac, Naismith, Davis, Edu, Ness (Hutton 66), Lafferty, Jelavic (Healy 88).

Referee: C Murry (England).