MARTIN HOPES SUFFER NASTY GRAZ BURNS

RANGERS showed fighting spirit against Sturm Graz, but first-half defensive lapses resulted in a second Europa League defeat in eight days to keep under-fire boss Russell Martin on the back foot.

- BY RONNIE ESPLIN

RANGERS showed fighting spirit against Sturm Graz, but first-half defensive lapses resulted in a second Europa League defeat in eight days to keep underfire boss Russell Martin on the back foot.

The Light Blues lost 1-0 to Belgian side Genk in their opening league phase game at Ibrox last Thursday and went down 2-1 at the Merkur Arena last night.

Slovenia striker Tomi Horvat scored after just seven minutes and, after Rangers forward Youssef Chermiti hit the woodwork, Georgia midfielder Otar Kiteishvili drove in a second in the 35th minute and Jurgen Saumel’s side were good for their advantage.

However, Gers wide man Djeidi Gassama made it 2-1 four minutes after the break with a terrific strike and offered hope for the Govan outfit, but the comeback could not be completed and, after just five wins in 16 games, the pressure remains firmly on Martin.