Unconvincing Rangers ended Dundee United's eight-game unbeaten run to leapfrog their hosts into third place in the Scottish Premiership and move back to within five points of leading duo Celtic and Aberdeen.
Tom Lawrence's early goal was enough for the visitors to navigate what was viewed by many as a must-win game for their title hopes, even this early in the season, after their 3-0 Old Firm derby loss last time out.
The Wales midfielder pounced on Cyriel Dessers' flick and showed some nice footwork before cutely chipping over advancing goalkeeper Jack Walton after only seven minutes.
It was the first time United had found themselves behind since their return to the top flight and, as they struggled to respond, manager Jim Goodwin replaced Kevin Holt with Ross Docherty in central midfield before the break.
After a change of shape, with Vicko Sevelj on for yellow carded Emmanuel Adegboyega at half-time, United crept more into the game.
Ever-impressive winger Kristijan Trapanovski sent a couple of drives wide as Rangers were forced ever deeper into their own half.
Dessers had been denied by Walton at the front post shortly before the break, while Lawrence curled a drive just over the crossbar and was thwarted by a big hand from the goalkeeper.
Otherwise, though, Rangers were rarely in full control and were happy just to see the game out to collect a much-needed three points.
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