Jelavic brace secures Gers win

10 December 2011 14:47

Nikica Jelavic grabbed a double as Rangers claimed a 2-0 victory over Hibernian in the Clydesdale Bank Premier League.

Following a poor opening 45 minutes from both sides at Easter Road, the striker converted from the penalty spot before sealing the win with his second of the day.

The result meant defeat on his home debut for new Hibs manager Pat Fenlon as the Scottish champions strengthened their grasp on top spot in the SPL.

Rangers were threatening early on when Gregg Wylde whipped a cross into the box from the left for Steven Whittaker but he connected awkwardly and was denied a clean shot at goal just six yards out.

At the other end, Hibs had the chance to put their visitors under pressure with a free-kick 35 yards out which was flighted into the area by Ivan Sproule. Whittaker's headed clearance landed at the feet of Lewis Stevenson, who dragged his shot across the face of goal and narrowly past the post.

Hibs could have snatched the opener on the stroke of half-time when a Sproule ball in the box was completely missed by Lee Wallace and fell for Leigh Griffiths. But he squandered a great chance by firing straight into the grateful hands of goalkeeper Allan McGregor.

Hibs fans claimed a penalty for handball against Whittaker but the pleas were ignored by the referee.

However, Iain Brines did point to the penalty spot at the other end moments later when Wallace was fouled in the box by Michael Hart and Jelavic converted to hand Rangers the lead after 61 minutes.

Hibs should have levelled almost immediately when Paul Hanlon threw himself in front of Sproule's free-kick only to send his diving header over the crossbar when he looked certain to hit the target.

Rangers doubled their advantage when Jelavic grabbed his second of the day after 69 minutes. Wylde was the provider with a corner from the left which found the Croatian unmarked in the box and the striker left goalkeeper Graham Stack no chance with the header.

Source: PA