Hearts moved a step closer to a first Scottish Premiership title in 66 years with a stirring 2-1 comeback victory over Rangers at Tynecastle. The win restored their three-point lead over Celtic and extended the gap to Rangers to seven points with three matches remaining.
Rangers, managed by Danny Röhl, dominated the first half and took the lead through a deflected Dujon Sterling effort. However, Hearts boss Derek McInnes made tactical changes at the break, introducing Blair Spittal and urging his players to 'man up'.
Stephen Kingsley equalised early in the second half after Alexandros Kyziridis struck the post. The winner came from Lawrence Shankland, who latched onto Kingsley's cross and fired a low first-time shot past Jack Butland.
Rangers pushed for an equaliser, with substitute Thelo Aasgaard hitting the crossbar, but Hearts held firm. 'If we play in the manner of that second half, we are difficult to stop,' said McInnes.
The result leaves Rangers in a precarious position, with Röhl admitting: 'We are in a very difficult situation.' Hearts now travel to Motherwell before Celtic host Rangers in a pivotal weekend.
