McCoist hails division quality

The Gers boss says he is well prepared for league battle

Rangers boss Ally McCoist is expecting to face quality this campaign despite being in the lowest division of the Scottish Football League.

The Gers have impressed at Ibrox but have yet to win away from home in the Third Division.

The Light Blues are the big team in the division but McCoist says he knows to expect some tough opposition.

"I haven't been surprised to be honest," McCoist said.

Bigger talent base

"I know a lot of the coaches and the managers and they do want to play the game in the right manner.

"Certainly there is a bigger talent base down the divisions than some people would think, but it hasn't surprised me at all.

"Although I keep saying the games are very competitive and physical, which they are, there is no shortage of good play from the boys in the lower leagues as well."

Youngster Robbie Crawford has made the most of being in the lower league, breaking into the first team with three appearances so far this term.

The 19-year-old said: "It's a big step up from the 19s last year and it's happened a bit quicker than I thought it would because a lot of players left in the summer.

"But I'm really enjoying it and it's good experience and it's a good challenge."