WES FODERINGHAM (7) Was untested for much of the afternoon as Aberdeen struggled to trouble Rangers. Couldn’t stop a terrific free-kick from Ross but then stood firm as the Gers saw it out.

JAMES TAVERNIER (7) Has been questioned over his defensive capabilities on several occasions but he stood up to the task here. Showed his ability going forward as he combined with Candeias for the second goal.

DANNY WILSON (6) Gave Rangers a dream start as he connected with John’s free-kick and sent a looping header into the net. Forced off at the break.

Read more: Chris Jack: The decision should be an easy one for Derek McInnes if Rangers come calling

DAVID BATES (7) Replaced the injured Bruno Alves in his first appearance since the defeat to Progres in July. Will be pleased with his efforts as he played his part in a crucial win.

DECLAN JOHN (7) Another decent showing from the left-back. Got forward well in the first half and helped his side ride out the late waves of attacks from the Dons.

ROSS MCCRORIE (7) Was Man of the Match at Ibrox in midweek and he didn’t let Murty down here either. Accomplished performance from the 19-year-old as he continues to impress.

RYAN JACK (6) Got the kind of hostile reception he would have expected on his return to Pittodrie but was a key influence for the Gers in the middle of the park. Harshly shown a straight red for a challenge on Stevie May.

Read more: Derek McInnes: Talk over a move to Rangers has 'dragged on and dragged on'

JASON HOLT (7) Had to put in a real shift in the middle of the park and he delivered once again. Combined well with Jack then helped the Gers overcome the loss of his midfield partner.

CARLOS PENA (5) Mexican repaid Murty’s faith in him with a goal at Ibrox in midweek but he offered little here. Didn’t get on the ball often enough to pose a threat.

JOSH WINDASS (6) Rightly booked for diving early on and then ran the risk of a second as he remonstrated with Willie Collum. Not a great overall but showed good composure to net the winner.

KENNY MILLER (6) Had few chances to get his name on the scoresheet on a frustrating afternoon in the final third. Led by example to get the Gers over the winning line, though.

Read more: Aberdeen 1-2 Rangers: The job is done for Graeme Murty and the Gers at Pittodrie

SUBS:

FABIO CARDOSO (for Wilson) (6) On at the break for Wilson as he returned to the team after a broken nose. Rose to the challenge as Aberdeen piled forward late on.

DANIEL CANDEIAS (for Pena) (5) Made an instant impact off the bench as he played a part in Windass’ goal. Did his job defensively in the closing stages.

EDUARDO HERRERA (for Windass) (1) On for the final seconds. Still managed to pick up a booking for kicking the ball away.