GLASGOW, Sep 9 (SW) - Boosted by the return of skipper Barry Ferguson, Rangers were in spirited form at Ibrox as they ran away 4-0 winners over hapless Falkirk on Saturday.

The home side went in front in style on 17 minutes as Manchester United loanee Phil Bardsley hit a marvelous free kick past Scott Higgins, and Dado Prso made it 2-0 just 11 minutes later with a strong finish from inside the area.

The second half got no better for Falkirk and they were 3-0 down in the 68th minute as Kris Boyd hit home from the penalty spot after being hauled down from behind by Darren Barr.

Belgian international Thomas Buffel then put the punctuation on the match 10 minutes later with a beautiful drive from distance that Higgins was helpless to stop.

Elsewhere in the SPL, title contenders Hearts were dealt a major setback as they were beaten 1-0 at home by St. Mirren on a goal by Stewart Kean eight minutes from time.