RASKIN LIGHTS PHEWS

Relief for Martin and Gers as Nico returns to inspire side into semis

- BY FRASER WILSON

NICO RASKIN returned from the naughty step to buy under-fire Russell Martin some valuable time as Rangers booked a Premier Sports Cup semifinal spot.

Goals from Raskin and Bojan Miovski saw off Hibs in the face of multiple protests against Martin and chief exec Patrick Stewart as chairman Andrew Cavenagh watched on from the main stand.

Rangers responded with a gritty display led by Raskin, who had been left out of the last two squads after a disagreement with the boss. Martin was full of praise for his returning star.

He said: "The role he played today really suits him. Really pleased with Nico. It was maybe a necessary thing to happen for myself and Nico's growth.