Burns gem sinks Rangers

The former Adelaide United winger netted with a powerful header in the 73rd minute at the Sydney Football Stadium to ensure AEK took the honours in the four-team pre-season tournament with three wins from as many games.

Burns, who also played a part in both goals in AEK's 2-1 win over Blackburn Rovers in midweek, sent a strong message to his manager Dusan Bajevic, who is weighing up whether to keep him with the first team for the coming season or loan him out.

The 22-year-old joined Athens from Adelaide in 2008 but has only just returned to the club after he was loaned out last season to then-second division side Kerkyra.

He needed only 10 minutes after coming off the bench to make his mark against the run of play against Rangers, leaping impressively to head home a cross from Nikos Karambelas to delight the home crowd.

AEK's win could have been even more comfortable had substitute Rafik Djebbour not been denied by two great saves from Rangers goalkeeper Alan McGregor in the late stages.

The Greek side dominated possession early on but Rangers took control of the match and should have headed into half-time with a lead.

The Scottish champion created a host of chances with defender Steven Whittaker causing problems on the right flank, floating in two lovely crosses that Kenny Miller just failed to meet.

Lee McCullough had a volleyed effort saved from a Steve Davis corner in the 36th minute before captain David Weir headed wide from a free kick.

Its best chance came three minutes from the break with Madjid Bougherra firing over the bar from close range following an attempt on goal by Maurice Edu.

Rangers’ frustration continued after the break with Miller again coming close with an acrobatic volley in the 64th minute while they also couldn't take a few late chances to snare a draw.