SPL round-up:  Skipper Barry Ferguson gave Rangers a significant psychological boost by inspiring a 3-0 victory over Inverness on the opening day of the Scottish Premier League campaign.

The long trek north to the Highlands had been a daunting prospect for the Ibrox side, who endured two defeats and a draw against Charlie Christie's side last term.

Results of that ilk typified a dismal season for the Glasgow giants and this victory - thanks to a double from Ferguson and a Nacho Novo strike - will be seen as a signal of intent as Rangers attempt to mount a credible challenge for Celtic's SPL crown.

Gretna were shown the harsh realities of the top flight with an opening-day hammering by Falkirk at Fir Park.

Playing at Motherwell's home, where they will be housed until Raydale Park is upgraded, the SPL new boys were 2-0 down at half-time thanks to a Michael Higdon double.

Further goals from Pedro Moutinho and Russell Latapy after the interval sealed the fate of the Borders club who, on this evidence, face a long season of struggle.

Steven McGarry gave Mark McGhee a flying start to his career as Motherwell manager with a third-minute winner against St Mirren at Love Street.

McGarry scored the only goal against his former club after a slick move and Well could have gone further ahead before the break with David Clarkson hitting the bar and Jim Paterson missing a penalty.

The game grew scrappier with referee Eddie Smith handing out seven yellow cards and Motherwell held out reasonably comfortably to open their campaign in style.

A spirited showing from 10-man Dundee United saw the Tayside club beat Aberdeen 1-0 at Tannadice thanks to a dramatic 90th-minute goal from David Robertson.

United had Dubliner Willo Flood dismissed during the first half for two bookable offences.