Derek McInnes praises Rangers’ resilience after Hampden triumph over Aberdeen

Derek McInnes praised Rangers’ determination after Ryan Naderi’s late winner secured a 1-0 victory over Aberdeen and booked their place in the Premier Sports Cup final.

The Gers struggled to find their rhythm during a disappointing first half at Hampden but improved considerably after the break. Their persistence finally paid off in the 83rd minute when Naderi converted James Penrice’s delivery to send Rangers through.

McInnes’ side will now face either Hearts or Hibernian in the final on December 13, with the Edinburgh rivals set to meet in Sunday’s second semi-final.

Speaking after the match, McInnes was pleased with the way his players refused to give up, even when things were not going their way.

“We arrived with the intention of getting to the cup final by hook or by crook and we done the job,” he said.

The Rangers boss admitted his team needed to improve despite dominating possession and creating plenty of opportunities.

He said: “To have 75 per cent possession and have 25 shots, it’s not good enough to only have five on target, that needs to be said.

“But that’s for another day, today is about getting through to the final.”

McInnes also highlighted the importance of reaching a major cup final for the players, supporters and the club, but insisted there was still plenty of work to do before December’s showpiece.

He warned that nobody was guaranteed a starting place, with players needing to maintain their performances over the coming weeks to earn a place in the final.

Meanwhile, Aberdeen manager Stephen Robinson was disappointed with the outcome but proud of how his injury-hit squad competed.

The Dons were without five defenders through injury and suspension, but Robinson felt his players showed tremendous character against a Rangers side with considerably more financial resources.

He said: “Obviously disappointed with the result.

“They scored during our best spell in the game as well which is unfortunate.

“But considering the week we have had, it has been really tough with injuries and they showed great character and courage.”

Robinson also suggested Rangers’ greater squad depth ultimately proved decisive, pointing to the quality of the players McInnes was able to introduce from the bench.

“They have players who can come on and win the game, they spend millions of pounds on those players and that was the difference between the sides today,” he added.