KRIS BOYD was today celebrating becoming the second-fastest player in Rangers' history to score 50 goals.

The striker bagged a double in the 4-0 win over East Fife in the CIS Cup at Dunfermline.

It took his tally to 51 in 58 starts since signing from Kilmarnock back in January 2005.

Boyd now sits behind only Jim Forrest in the list of Rangers players to hit quick-fire half-centuries. Forrest achieved the feat in 47 matches back in the 1960s.

Scotland man Boyd may be struggling to command a regular starting slot, but his goals return is not lost on those in the dressing room.

And Chris Burke - who appeared for the first time this season last night - believes Boyd is priceless.

Burke said: "Kris is a goal machine, and players like that can help you win titles and cups.

"He is priceless for us. To have scored 51 goals already is some achievement. He gets himself into positions and scores the ugly ones as well, like his first one last night.

"Kris is working very hard, like we all are, and it's tough when there is such a massive squad. But when you have that kind of record, you are always going to be in the frame. Since coming to Rangers, his return-rate has been superb."

Boyd was also praised by Walter Smith, who believes the 24-year-old is improving all the time.

The Rangers boss said: "Given that it's been a difficult time for the club in the past 18 months, to have scored 51 goals is a terrific tally.

"He has worked very hard this season. Without any prompting from anyone here, Kris went away and worked hard on his fitness over the summer.

"Yes, I think he is improving as a player. One of the things no-one wants to take away from Kris is that psyche that he has - namely he sees himself first and foremost as a goal-scorer.

"But in my period back at the club he has done everything we have asked of him. I have no complaints at all with him, and Kris doesn't need to show me anything.

"If we had gone with just Kris Boyd and one other striker we wouldn't win anything this season. We had to bring in players for a lot of positions, and that included strikers.

"Once things settle down we'll need to pick who we think is best. But I know what Kris can do."

Burke, meantime, hopes he did enough last night to stay in the squad for Motherwell this Saturday.

He added: "It's been frustrating for me as I want to play. But you just have to come in and take your chance.

"I was pleased to get a game last night, and it was a good win for us in what was a tricky cup-tie.

"I felt fit enough as we train very hard at the club. There is a big battle for places, but I just need to keep working away and hope I can stay involved."