Hibernian 2-6 Rangers: Mark Warburton lauds impact of signings

Martyn Waghorn and James Travernier scored on their Rangers debuts

Rangers manager Mark Warburton lauded his side after starting his reign with a 6-2 win over Hibs at Easter Road.

Sam Stanton put Hibs ahead but James Tavernier's free-kick and a Martyn Waghorn double put the visitors in charge of the Challenge Cup tie.

Jason Cummings pulled one back from the spot, but Andy Halliday got Rangers' fourth before Kenny Miller's brace.

"It's a good start from us and we have to build on it and recognise where we can go," Warburton told BBC Scotland.

Rangers were initially slow to get going and both Cummings and Dominique Malonga passed up chances to add to Stanton's opener.

However, they found their feet from 40 minutes onwards and ran emphatic winners in the end against the side who finished above them in the Scottish Championship last season.

Warburton made a winning start as Rangers manager

"The result is pleasing and it's good for the fans, but we have to recognise also that games change on fine margins and the first half wasn't good enough," said Warburton.

"They're an honest group and they recognise that first half was way below the required standard.

"We were maybe a bit nervous, a bit hesitant, but we have to be brave and get on the ball."

Ranger started with seven new signings, three of which scored on their competitive debuts.

"There's some really talented players in the squad, and there was some good players on the bench which is nice," said the former Brentford manager who moved to Ibrox in the summer.

"The depth of the squad will be important. It's a long season, and I thought the subs when they came on made a real difference.

"We recognise the quality of Hibs and what they will pose to us. We're getting a squad together, gelling together, and our targets are very clear.

"They've worked hard. Tactically they've picked up quickly, they've been very aware, they've asked good questions. A sign of a good group is how much they talk, and this group, young and old, talk."