Ian Holloway heaped praise on young match-winner Paul Smyth after the Northern Irishman scored Rangers’ second in their 2-1 win over Cardiff City on New Year’s Day.

Striker Smyth was given his first start in a Hoops shirt since moving from Linfield in the summer and rewarded his manager’s faith by firing in a superb winner 18 minutes from time.

Smyth’s effort completed a terrific Rangers comeback after Joe Ralls’ penalty gave Neil Warnock’s Championship high-flyers the lead nine minutes after the break.

Matt Smith’s header levelled matters, and the big centre forward’s flick found Smyth, who raced into the box before powering his left-footed effort beyond goalkeeper Brian Murphy.

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Holloway admitted Smyth’s inclusion was a risk, but also a chance that the 20-year-old’s ability and attitude deserved.

"Young Smyth was a breath of fresh air, he has been since he arrived here to be honest,” said Holloway.

"Of course it was a risk – probably the biggest gamble I've taken as a manager – but it was one worth taking.

"We've been getting into good areas and not taking our chances, so in the end you've got to try something different. He deserved his chance and he took it.

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"He got a bit of luck with the deflection, but his overall performance deserved that luck.

"The balance was right with him and big Smithy - we needed legs around him. It paid off big time for us.

"I'm delighted for the lads. They showed unbelievable character to come from a goal down, especially given the run we've been on.

"Cardiff are a good side, make no mistake. They're going through a tough run but they're a good side – and that's a big, big win for us.”

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