Scottish Premier League wrap: Rangers, Celtic post wins

Rangers extended their lead at the top of the Scottish Premier League to nine points on Sunday with a 2-0 away win over Hearts.

Steven Naismith coolly beat Hearts goalkeeper Marian Kello after 21 minutes to give Rangers the lead after being played in by Steven Whittaker.

Hearts took control of the match after the break, piling on the pressure and forcing some great saves from Allan McGregor in the Rangers goal, but substitute Nikica Jelavic put the result beyond doubt 16 minutes from the end.

The Croatian striker drifted in behind the Hearts defence and showed poise to volley home a lofted ball from Carlos Bocanegra to make sure of all three points.

Elsewhere on Sunday, Celtic remained in third but pulled to within one point of second-placed Motherwell with a 2-1 win over Aberdeen at Parkhead.

The home side took the lead after 17 minutes thanks to a goal from South Korean midfielder Ki Sung-Yeung, but Aberdeen hit back through Ryan Jack just before the hour mark.

Ki turned provider after 72 minutes to set-up Charlie Mulgrew for the winner.

Aberdeen finished the match with 10 men when referee Stevie O’Reilly ordered Jack off for a second bookable offence with 10 minutes remaining.