Rangers win battle of Parkhead
01/09/2008 8:35 AM
it to the far side of the box to Miller whose volley from 14 yards bounced once before zipping past Boruc at the far post.
Pandemonium ensued as Miller and most of the Rangers players headed for the corner to celebrate with the Light Blues' fans.
Then, in the 61st minute, there was more drama when Rangers went further ahead with an incredible strike from Mendes.
The Portugal international, unmarked 30 yards from goal, lined up a Steven Davis corner and unleashed a first time shot which sped past everyone in the packed penalty area to beat Boruc.
The champions looked stunned and boss Gordon Strachan brought on Vennegoor of Hesselink and Barry Robson for Samaras and Paul Hartley.
In the 75th minute, Cousin, booked earlier for persistent fouling, was shown another yellow then a red after clashing with McManus in an aerial battle. Then Vennegoor of Hesselink was shown a straight red for an apparent kick at Broadfoot.
The excitement was not finished as Boruc fumbled a Broadfoot cross allowing Miller the easiest of chances to prod the ball into the empty net for number four.
Wilson drew a fine save from McGregor with a drive from 25 yards before being replaced by Ben Hutchinson but by then the points and plaudits were destined for Ibrox.
In the first minute of injury time Nakamura was fouled at the edge of the box by Weir and the Japan international fired in a consolation from a trademark free-kick.
Scottish Premier League
Celtic 2 (Samaras 39, Nakamura 90)
Rangers 4 (Cousin 37, Miller 52, 79, Mendes 62)