Hearts mount comeback to defeat Rangers and secure three point lead in Scottish league race

Hearts found themselves behind after Dujon Sterlings deflected strike during the opening period at Tynecastle however they rallied during the interval and Stephen Kingsley levelled things up before Shanklands decisive strike triggered ecstatic scenes.

The side from the capital who have triumphed in their most recent trio of fixtures now hold a three point advantage over runners up Celtic thanks to a better goal tally. They lead third placed Rangers by seven points with only three matches left in this enthralling championship contest.

The team aims to be the initial outfit besides Celtic and Rangers to claim the Scottish championship since Aberdeens success back in 1985.

They will confront Celtic in what could be a decisive clash for the crown on the final matchday however they might clinch the trophy earlier.

McInnes mentioned on Friday that he desired to witness Tynecastle in its full splendour for one of its most significant encounters ever. His wish came true as his squad stepped out amid a wave of maroon and white hues accompanied by a deafening roar.

Rangers wasted a prime opportunity in the 19th minute as Tochi Chukwuani nodded a free header wide from James Taverniers set piece delivery.

Danny Rohls squad quietened the local fans in the 23rd minute when Taverniers lengthy throw in was only partially cleared reaching Sterling who volleyed from eight yards with the ball looping in after touching Michael Steinwender.

McInnes reacted by introducing Blair Spittal at the beginning of the second half and the substitution ignited Hearts performance.

Shankland had a powerful effort stopped by Emmanuel Fernandes prior to Claudio Braga compelling Jack Butland to make his initial stop.

The leveller arrived in the 54th minute as Alexandros Kyziridis drifted inwards from the flank and fired a dipping effort against the upright with Kingsley ideally positioned to slot home the loose ball from near the six yard line.

Hearts netted the crucial winner in the 71st minute after Spittal found Kingsley advancing on the left flank and his pull back glanced off Tavernier landing perfectly for Shankland to slam a firm low drive past Butland as the stadium exploded in delight.