STEVEN GERRARD was delighted with another comfortable win for Rangers as they moved one step closer to Hampden with victory over Kilmarnock.

The Light Blues followed up their Europa League heroics against Maribor in midweek by seeing off their Premiership rivals 3-1 at Rugby Park.

Alfredo Morelos netted twice before the break and then secured the win by completing his hat-trick after a Borna Barisic own goal had given Steve Clarke’s side hope.

Rangers will now face Ayr United in the last eight and are just 90 minutes away from their first appearance at the National Stadium under Gerrard’s guidance.

And the 38-year-old reckons the Gers were more than worthy winners on their return to domestic action in Ayrshire.

Gerrard said: “We’re happy with the draw. You always look for a home fixture. Ayr United will be pleased with it as well, the chance to come to Ibrox and get a scalp against us.

“It’s a good draw for both teams and a tie we will look forward to.

“I thought we were excellent again today. When the draw was made, Kilmarnock away was always going to be a tricky tie for us, especially coming to a difficult surface on the back of an away game in Europe.

“There were a few tired legs but my team were excellent. I thought we dominated for the first 50 minutes. We should have had another goal in the first half but unfortunately the linesman hasn’t seen it.

“But at half-time we were satisfied with 2-0. Then we score an own goal which lifted Kilmarnock. The game changed for the next 15 or 20 minutes, they got a lot of belief and hope.

“When we get our third, Alfredo’s hat-trick, it was game over. I felt it was in the bag at 3-1. We were looking as if we could get another one.

“I’m pleased to progress after such a tough fixture. Steve Clarke organises his teams well. I have a lot of respect for him and I knew he wanted to beat us today.

“We faced everything thrown at us today and answered the questions well.”