Celtic close on stumbling Scottish leaders Hearts

Current title holders Celtic narrowed the lead over Scottish Premiership frontrunners Hearts to seven points thanks to a convincing 4-0 win against Kilmarnock on Sunday.

With Hearts letting slip an opportunity earlier that day, strikes by Johnny Kenny, Kieran Tierney, Daizen Maeda and Arne Engels via a stoppage-time spot kick left Kilmarnock enduring a fifth loss in a row, slipping them down to tenth position.

"I am pleased with the victory, and when pursuing the leaders you often require some fortune, yet plenty of fixtures remain," acting Celtic head coach Martin O'Neill shared with the BBC.

O'Neill, celebrated for his achievements in his initial tenure at Celtic from 2000 to 2005, came back to Parkhead recently after Brendan Rodgers stepped down amid tensions with primary investor Dermot Desmond.

The 73 year old O'Neill, who has often stressed that his role is temporary pending the arrival of a permanent younger replacement for Rodgers, continued: "I will use the upcoming international pause for some consideration, as many of our squad members will be on duty elsewhere, allowing space for personal thoughts.

"The past two weeks have been a real eye opener, I still find it hard to accept. To be honest, I am uncertain about returning after the break. Whatever decision the directors reach will suit me perfectly."

Hearts managed only a 1-1 stalemate at home versus Dundee United, marking their second tie across the last three outings.

Alexandros Kyziridis saw his effort bounce off the upright and loop in off United keeper Yevhen Kucherenko, only for Luca Stephenson to level matters right before the interval.

"We were fortunate to secure even that single point, in my view," remarked Hearts coach Derek McInnes.

"After 12 matches, reaching 30 points by mid November while remaining undefeated makes it tough to find fault."

Fresh Rangers manager Danny Rohl secured a third straight league triumph, beating Dundee 3-0, positioning them 12 points adrift of Hearts but with one game to spare, and five clear of local adversaries Celtic, who have also completed 11 league fixtures.

Nico Raskin nodded in from a corner in the ninth minute, Mikey Moore doubled the advantage with his debut strike for the club on loan from Tottenham Hotspur, and Djeidi Gassama finished with a fine curl in the final minute.

Rohl, cheered by away Gers fans post match at Dens Park, commented: "I always aim to foster strong ties with supporters. They deserve respect for their dedication in travelling. I notice increasing unity.

"Reflecting on my time here, the group is aligning better each day.

"This progress is positive. My team and coaching staff offer excellent backing, the squad responds well, and uniting with fans means we advance as one to develop something special."

Motherwell extended their unbeaten league run to three by drawing 1-1 away to Aberdeen, as Elijah Just matched Jesper Karlsson's early effort for the home side.