Maritimo 1 Rangers 0Rangers' poor start to the season continued last night when they were beaten by a Gustavo Manduca goal in Madeira.

The result placed manager Alex McLeish under yet more pressure - and his job may now depend on overturning this first-leg deficit at Ibrox in a fortnight's time.

The visitors twice hit the woodwork in the first half and passed up plenty more opportunities against a Maritimo side that was skilful on the ball, but only average at best in defence.

McLeish must now fear time is running out for him, although he could point out that only Juventus have won a European tie in Funchal and Leeds twice came back from 1-0 defeats on the island to progress in the UEFA Cup.

The fact remains, however, that it would be a disaster if Rangers cannot reach the inaugural group stage of the competition.

Both sides created and missed chances before the home side took the lead in the 27th minute with Nacho Novo heading a great opportunity wide for Rangers in only the fifth minute.

A goal was coming and it was another body blow to McLeish when Manduca netted it for Maritimo.

Dragan Mladenovic surrendered possession to allow Luis Filipe to set up Leo Lima for a drive that Stefan Klos could only parry and the Italian was first to the loose ball to apply the finish.

MARITIMO: Marcos Oliveira, Ferreira, Tonel, Van der Gaag, Briguel, Leo Lima (Zeca 84), Wenio, Luis Filipe, Manduca (Zumbi 73), Chainho, Alan. Subs Not Used: Nelson, Bino, Souza, Fernando, Joel Santos. Goals: Manduca 27.

RANGERS: Klos, Ross, Moore, Boumsong, Vignal, Burke, Mladenovic, Ricksen, Arveladze, Prso, Novo (Lovenkrands 83). Subs Not Used: Graeme Smith, Hughes, Thompson, Khizanishvili, Malcolm, Vanoli.

Referee: Johan Verbist (Belgium).