Goals by Steven Naismith and substitute Nacho Novo against Queen of the South put Rangers through to the Co-operative Insurance Cup quarter-finals.
In perfect conditions in front of a capacity crowd, the home side battled gamely and only a bad miss by Weatherston and a super save by Alexander from Holmes enabled Rangers to escape extra time..
Kris Boyd's low cross invited Naismith to side-foot home in 16 minutes, then Novo blasted a late second for Rangers.
Queens' Robert Harris curled in a great consolation goal in injury time.
Walter Smith sent out a strong team at Palmerston Park, mindful perhaps of the tough opposition Queens provided in the 2008 Scottish Cup Final but more likely limited in his options by the pruning to his squad brought about by financial necessity.
Queens were desparately unlucky at times but ruthless finishing by Rangers made the difference.
It also turned out to be a costly match for the Doonhamers with Tosh sustaining a bad injury and also Weatherston receiving a ham string problems.
Queens MAD man of the match - Weatherston - He was a constant thorn in the Rangers defensive flesh and but for better finishing could have won the match for Queens.
Rangers survive early first half pressure
Image courtesy of qosfc.com