Hibs and Gers share thrilling stalemate

It proved to be a busy afternoon for the goalkeepers with both sides creating plenty of chances but ultimately lacking the cutting edge required to decide the tie.

There was even an unexpected debut for new Rangers goalkeeper Neil Alexander after Allan McGregor was sent off with just a few minutes remaining of an action-packed encounter.

Merouane Zemmama gave Hibs hope of an early opener when he embarked on an impressive run down the left flank from the halfway line but he was eventually halted by Kirk Broadfoot with John Rankin and Steven Fletcher both loitering with intent in front of goal.

Yves Ma-Kalambay needed to prevent a smart left-footed shot from Barry Ferguson from finding the net, pulling off a fine save after the Ibrox skipper had collected a Chris Burke pass.

Hibs were under pressure again when Sasa Papac was allowed to race unchallenged down the left flank before setting up Lee McCulloch, who scooped the ball over from close range.

The midfielder had the chance to make amends when he connected with a Charlie Adam ball at the back post and nodded across goal only for the header to trickle wide.

Hibs should have taken the lead when Dean Shiels' firm shot was deflected inches wide, before Fletcher's header was hooked off the line by Naismith.

Adam could have been the hero for the visitors when Broadfoot was felled on the edge of the box and he stepped up for the free-kick. His curling effort was well struck but Ma-Kalambay dramatically punched clear.

And McGregor's excellent match ended when the keeper was shown a straight red card with three minutes to go for racing off his line and clattering into Shiels as he bore down on goal.