Rangers reduce gap at top of table
GLASGOW, Scotland -- Champions Rangers reduced Celtic's lead in the Scottish Premier League to eight points with a 2-0 victory at Dundee.
First-half goals from Nuno Capucho and Michael Ball secured victory to take Rangers to 44 points. Celtic thrashed Hibernian 6-0 at home on Saturday.
The Glasgow sides meet in the second Old Firm derby of the season next Saturday and Rangers probably have to avoid defeat to keep alive realistic hopes of retaining their title.
"There's no doubt it was a crucial win for us today before we go to Celtic Park next week," said Rangers manager Alex McLeish.
Rangers, with Australian defender Craig Moore back from injury, went ahead on six minutes when Capucho headed home a cross from Chris Burke.
Dundee had chances to level but Ball's 35th minute strike from a long-range free-kick that swirled into the net secured the three points.
