A Rangers youth squad travelled to Somerset Park last night for a testimonial for long-serving groundsman Davie Harkness and blew away Ayr United with a stunning performance.

The 4-1 result prompted coach Tommy Wilson to say that this is the best batch of kids he has ever worked with and on this evidence that is no surprise.

Wilson, of course, led Scotland’s under-19s to the final of the European Championship in Poland two seasons ago but feels his Murray Park starlets have the same, if not more, potential.

Tommy said: “I keep telling the boys that they have just as much ability as that group of players - and a lot of them have gone on to play in the SPL and even the full Scotland side.”

The pitch was in perfect condition for the game and it allowed the Light Blues to turn on the style on the lush surface.

Steven Lennon and Rory Loy were the stars of the show in front of watching national team boss George Burley and under-21 gaffer Billy Stark.

Indeed it was Lennon who opened the scoring early on when he smashed home a great cut-back from Alan Lowing.

John Fleck then delivered a teasing cross and the striker was there again to head home from 15 yards.

Stevie turned goal provider for his teammate Loy for his side’s third although his effort took a wicked deflection before beating the wrong footed Ayr United keeper.

David Gormley pulled one back for the home side on 62 minutes but Fleck and Chris Craig combined to send Loy haring through for Rangers’ fourth 20 minutes for time.