Hearts Open Nine-Point Lead With 2-0 Defeat Of Rangers

Hearts opened up a nine-point lead at the top of the Scottish Premiership after defeating 10-man Rangers 2-0 at Tynecastle.

Rangers lost defender Steven Smith in the 21st minute when he was sent off for a crunching tackle on Hearts defender Callum Paterson.

Hearts midfielder Jason Holt then found himself in space in the Rangers box 11 minutes into the second half and struck the loose ball cleanly to score the opening goal past visiting keeper Steve Simonsen.

And in the 88th minute, Jamie Walker drew a foul in the Rangers box to earn a penalty which he converted to seal the win.

SKYSPORTS