THE fact Rangers moved to the top of the Third Division at the weekend, despite failing to win an away league games is all the proof required.

Ally McCoist's side have struggled with life in the lower leagues, certainly away from Ibrox, with not a single victory in their four league matches on the road.

But winning at home has been enough to take the Light Blues top of the league, and their away form should start to improve sooner rather than later.

In fact, if McCoist doesn't keep his team out in front, then questions will be asked when he has players such as Lee McCulloch, Ian Black and Dean Shiels at his disposal.

If improvements aren't made there it could be that Rangers may drop down a position or two. But with the level of opposition they are up against and the inconsistency of the other teams in the division, it is more likely Rangers will stay top.

MUST DO BETTER says MATTHEW LINDSAY

DESPITE their diabolical away form in the Irn-Bru Third Division, I have no doubt Rangers will win the title, and subsequent promotion, this season.

Even with a small squad of players and a 12-month signing ban, they should just about have enough quality to prevail come next May.

Just don't expect them to steamroller opposition and stroll to the silverware in the manner they did for many years before experiencing their current difficulties.

As we saw once again on Saturday, when they laboured to overcome a spirited Queen's Park side at Ibrox, they are no longer a dominant force.

They may have edged ahead of Elgin City at the top of the table on goal difference with the triumph over the Spiders, but I don't expect them to pull away.

Ally McCoist's men will be doing well to get a result against Clyde at Broadwood this weekend and maintain their lead.