GRAHAM ALEXANDER hailed his Motherwell heroes for handling a 'hostile' Ibrox as the Steelmen wrecked Rangers' flag day celebrations.

The champions unfurled their 55th league flag ahead of kick-off as chairman Douglas Park was joined by deputy John Bennett and Greatest Ever Ranger John Greig.

But it would turn into an afternoon to forget for Steven Gerrard's side as Kaiyne Woolery cancelled out Fashion Sakala's first half strike.

Motherwell produced a battling performance to earn themselves a share of the points as a demanding home crowd were left frustrated come the end of a competitive outing.

Alexander said: “When a team of that quality has loads of possession they do leave gaps at the back.

“They commit bodies to attacking areas so we knew when we turned it over we had to use it wisely. And hit them on the counter.

“They are a real sharp team with terrific quality but I believe in my team and I think we have the quality to match any opponents.

"It was tough and it was hostile. We had to play against many opponents today, but you saw our players.

"They were backing each other, supporting each other and we knew we had that support back in Motherwell.

"My players deserve immense credit for coming here on a massive day, going 1-0 down to the champions and coming back to earn something from the game.

"And it was a deserved point at least. But we have to put it to bed and go next week.

"It’s about the points total and momentum and belief and confidence in what is quite a new squad.

"The more they work together and the more points they earn, they more they believe in each other and that’s what we have seen.

"But we can’t get carried away with ourselves and we have to understand the challenges come thick and fast every week."