Lawrence Shankland’s stunning strike took Hearts a step closer to a historic Scottish Premiership title and knocked Rangers out of the race with a 2-1 victory at Tynecastle.
Rangers were dominant at the break and deservedly led thanks to Dujon Sterling’s deflected effort, but Hearts boss Derek McInnes changed the game at half-time and the second half was a different story.
Hearts came out and pulled themselves level when Stephen Kingsley turned in after Alexandros Kyziridis hit the post, before captain Shankland stepped up with a first-time finish into the bottom corner.
The result leaves Hearts, who are bidding for a first league title since 1960, three points clear of Celtic and seven ahead of Rangers with just three games remaining. Celtic will host Rangers in the Old Firm next week.
Hearts will visit Motherwell next and go to Celtic on the final day of the season, but Shankland’s dramatic winner leaves the title in their hands as they bid to become the first champions outside of the Old Firm since 1985.
Follow live updates from Hearts v Rangers, below
Hearts v Rangers LIVE: Latest Premiership updates
- FULL TIME! Hearts take huge step towards title and knock Rangers out of race
- 71' GOAL! Shankland's stunning finish fires Hearts in front [HEA 2-1 RAN]
- 54' GOAL! Improve Hearts respond and Kingsley turns in equaliser [HEA 1-1 RAN]
- 22' GOAL! Sterling's deflected shot bundles Rangers into early lead [HEA 0-1 RAN]
71' GOAL! Shankland's stunning finish fires Hearts towards title [HEA 2-1 RAN]
23:00 , Jamie BraidwoodHearts’ tails were up and they grabbed the decisive goal in the 71st minute when Spittal released Kingsley down the left and his cutback took a deflection off Tavernier and fell kindly to Shankland, who despatched an emphatic low left-footed finish beyond Butland, sparking delirious scenes.
🗣️ “Hearts are pursuing the title, and pursuing history!”
— Sky Sports Scotland (@ScotlandSky) May 4, 2026
Captain Lawrence Shankland fires Hearts into the lead against Rangers ⤵️ pic.twitter.com/5k7ikqUI63
54' GOAL! Improved Hearts respond and Kingsley turns in equaliser [HEA 1-1 RAN]
22:00 , Jamie BraidwoodDerek McInnes responded by sending on Blair Spittal in place of the ineffective Islam Chesnokov for the start of the second half and the change helped spark the Jambos into life. Lawrence Shankland saw a ferocious shot blocked by Emmanuel Fernandes before Claudio Braga forced Jack Butland into his first save of the night after a fluent build-up. The equaliser came in the 54th minute when Kyziridis cut in from the right and curled a low shot off the far post, with Kingsley perfectly placed to guide in the rebound from just outside the six-yard box.
🎙️ “It’s a cool finish!”
— Sky Sports Scotland (@ScotlandSky) May 4, 2026
Stephen Kingsley finds the equaliser for Hearts against Rangers. It’s GAME ON here at Tynecastle, watch it all live on Sky 📺 pic.twitter.com/4poqHJATf2
22' GOAL! Sterling's deflected shot bundles Rangers into early lead [HEA 0-1 RAN]
21:00 , Jamie BraidwoodRangers had been building a head of steam and they silenced the home support in the 23rd minute. James Tavernier’s long throw into the box was partially cleared by the head of Stuart Findlay, but only as far as Dujon Sterling whose volley from eight yards out deflected off Michael Steinwender and looped beyond Alexander Schwolow. The goal removed the wind from the hosts’ sails and they spent the remainder of the first half treading water as Danny Rohl’s team threatened a second.
🎙️ “A good connection from Dujon Sterling!”
— Sky Sports Scotland (@ScotlandSky) May 4, 2026
Rangers take the lead over Hearts at Tynecastle 🔵 pic.twitter.com/0lfJoEFbSJ
Rangers boss Danny Rohl rejects questions of team's mentality
20:38 , Jamie BraidwoodRangers manager Danny Rohl, speaking to the BBC, after defeat at Tynecastle left his side seven points off the leaders.
“This is not about mentality, I think everyone who plays football knows what happens if the home team get an equaliser, the crowd is there.
“This is what we missed today, to win such a game it is not enough to play for 45 minutes on a high level, you have to play 90 minutes on your highest level.
“And I think if we’re honest with each other in the last three games, we have not always had enough to take three wins.
“We go away now, and then we have two more games to go, and I want to see a group who play for every point and plays good football over 90 minutes.”
Former Rangers striker Kris Boyd on title race: 'Its done, finito'
20:25 , Jamie BraidwoodKris Boyd, the former Rangers striker and Sky Sports pundit, says the title race is “done” for the Gers after their second-half collapse at Tynecastle.
“There will be mentality questions asked of Rangers,” he said. “Hearts have been top for a number of months. You have to expect that you're going to suffer in the second half, and that's mentality.
“You have to dig in and get a result, but they didn't. Rangers had to strike and once again they didn't - they have failed. The title race is done. Finito.”
Report: Lawrence Shankland fires winner against Rangers to boost Hearts’ title bid
20:13 , Anthony BrownCaptain Lawrence Shankland kept Hearts firmly on course for Premiership glory as they all but eliminated one of their two main rivals from contention by coming from behind to defeat Rangers 2-1 at a frenzied Tynecastle.
The Gers arrived in Edinburgh four points off the pace and it looked like they might be about to blow the three-way battle for the championship wide open when they led at the break through Dujon Sterling’s deflected effort.
But Hearts, having been outplayed for long periods of the first half, regrouped at the break and turned the game around through goals from Stephen Kingsley and Shankland.
The buoyant Jambos – who have won each of their last three games – are now three points ahead of second-placed Celtic with a superior goal difference and a whopping seven clear of Gers, with just three games remaining of this compelling Scottish title race.
Lawrence Shankland fires winner against Rangers to boost Hearts’ title bid
Hearts hero Lawrence Shankland: 'It's one game at a time still'
20:02 , Jamie BraidwoodThe Hearts captain was speaking to Sky Sports...
"We started the second half really well. We started to turn the ball over and got the belief. We could feel the crowd get behind us.
"It's one game at a time still. Today was another three points. We need to stay focused. You can feel the connection with the supporters. The fans are living it. We need to enjoy this."
Hearts and Rangers remaining fixtures after today
19:51 , Jamie BraidwoodThis was the first of three massive weekends, plus a midweek, between now and the end of the season.
Saturday May 9
Motherwell v Heart of Midlothian (2000)
Sunday May 10
Celtic v Rangers (1200)
Wednesday May 13
Heart of Midlothian v Falkirk (2000)
Motherwell v Celtic (2000)
Rangers v Hibernian (2000)
Saturday May 16
Celtic v Heart of Midlothian (1230)
Falkirk v Rangers (1230)
How Derek McInnes changed the game at half-time
19:38 , Jamie BraidwoodHearts were overrun in the first half. Rangers dominated with a three-man midfield and Hearts struggled to keep possession, let alone create a chance.
At the break, McInnes changed his team. He brought on Blair Spittal for Islam Chesnokov, sacrificing a winger for another midfielder and pushing Stephen Kingsley to wing-back. With a 3-5-2, Hearts could match Rangers in midfield and support Claudio Braga and Lawrence Shankland.
It changed the game. Hearts were so much better after the break. Although it would be fair to question Rangers after they again failed to string two decent halves of football together.
Hearts go three clear of Celtic, Rangers seven off leaders
19:30 , Jamie BraidwoodUPDATED: Scottish Premiership title race
1) Hearts | Pld, 35: Pts: 76 (+32 GD)
2) Celtic | Pld, 35: Pts: 73 (+27 GD)
3) Rangers | Pld, 35: Pts: 69 (+33 GD)
FULL TIME! Hearts 2-1 Rangers
19:29 , Jamie Braidwood“The boys in maroon are the talk of the toon!”
Unbelievable scenes as Tynecastle erupts at the sound of the full-time whistle! They turned the match around at half-time, after Rangers dominated. Goals from Stephen Kingsley and Lawrence Shankland, an inspirational strike from the captain, made the difference.
They remain unbeaten at home and send Rangers packing!
“KEEP BELIEVING” reads a banner at the Gorgie End.
FULL TIME! Hearts 2-1 Rangers
19:26 , Jamie BraidwoodRommens crosses.... Chermiti meets it but heads wide! Hearts celebrate as if it is a goal!
It may as well be! Hearts have done it! They come from behind to knock Rangers out ot the title race!
With three games to go, they are three points clear of Celtic, seven ahead of Rangers! WOOW!
Hearts 2-1 Rangers
19:25 , Jamie Braidwood90+6 mins: Hearts have it in the corner but Steinwender punts it back to Butland. One last Rangers chance to get it long?
Hearts 2-1 Rangers
19:24 , Jamie Braidwood90+5 mins: Hearts head away and Gassama blasts over! The roof almost explodes off Tynecastle.
Hearts 2-1 Rangers
19:23 , Jamie Braidwood90+5 mins: Fernandez wins a corner...
Hearts 2-1 Rangers
19:23 , Jamie Braidwood90+4 mins: The ball drops to Fernandez but he can’t get his shot away... Steinwender then wins his challenge with Chermiti in the box.
Hearts 2-1 Rangers
19:21 , Jamie Braidwood90+2 mins: Cool from Spittal and Shankland. They win a corner in Rangers’ half and will not be in a hurry to take it.
That’s Shankland’s last involvement. If Hearts go all the way, his goal will live long, long in the memory.
Hearts 2-1 Rangers
19:18 , Jamie Braidwood89 mins: Hearts fans... look away! SEVEN MINUTES to be added. Schwolow comes out well to take a cross. Rangers have been disappointing in this second half.
Hearts 2-1 Rangers
19:16 , Jamie Braidwood88 mins: Hearts have 10 men behind the ball and Kabore running the channels. Spittal, who has made another massive impact, wins a second ball to roars from the home fans. Kingsley now has cramp. Hearts fans can’t watch... the tension!
Hearts 2-1 Rangers
19:14 , Jamie Braidwood86 mins: Imagine this: Celtic fans currently want a Rangers equaliser... just a few minutes to go and Rangers need a massive turnaround to keep their hopes alive.
Hearts 2-1 Rangers
19:12 , Jamie Braidwood84 mins: Gassama goes down in the box as McCart also stumbles. It’s been waved away by the VAR. Rangers are furious.
Hearts 2-1 Rangers
19:11 , Jamie Braidwood82 mins: Braga is cramping up but Hearts are going to send on defensive reinforcements. Jamie McCart and Pierre Landry Kabore are on for Kyziridis and the limping Braga.
Hearts 2-1 Rangers
19:08 , Jamie Braidwood79 mins: Fernandez is booked for a crunching tackle on Braga, even though it looks as if he got the ball. Tensions are rising.
Hearts 2-1 Rangers
19:06 , Jamie Braidwood77 mins: OFF THE BAR! Tavernier’s wicked cross temps Schwolow to come for the ball but Aasgaard, I think, heads against the post with the goalkeeper off his line! Hearts survive!
WATCH! Shankland's stunning finish fires Hearts in front
19:04 , Jamie BraidwoodWhat a goal. What a moment for Hearts. Can they see it out?
🗣️ “Hearts are pursuing the title, and pursuing history!”
— Sky Sports Scotland (@ScotlandSky) May 4, 2026
Captain Lawrence Shankland fires Hearts into the lead against Rangers ⤵️ pic.twitter.com/5k7ikqUI63
Hearts 2-1 Rangers
19:04 , Jamie Braidwood75 mins: A triple change for Rangers! On come Aasgaard, Rommens, Naderi. Off go Raskin, Moore, Sterling.
Hearts 2-1 Rangers
19:02 , Jamie Braidwood73 mins: Hearts fans... pinch yourselves. What a turnaround this has been. And Spittal now forces a fingertip stop from Butland from a quick free kick!
GOAL! Hearts 2-1 Rangers (SHANKLAND 71')
18:59 , Jamie BraidwoodWHEN THEY NEEDED A HERO! THE CAPTAIN STEPS UP! WHAT A FINISH FROM LAWRENCE SHANKLAND !
Stunning from the striker! From the pull-back, Shankland fires the ball, first-time, into the bottom corner! Butland has no chance!
Tynecastle is shaking!
Hearts 1-1 Rangers
18:58 , Jamie Braidwood69 mins: Rohl’s turn to try and change the game. Skov Olsen has been quiet in the second half and is replaced by Gassama. As we enter the closing stages, who twists and goes for victory? Rangers, realistically, need three points.
Hearts 1-1 Rangers
18:55 , Jamie Braidwood66 mins: It’s good from Kyziridis again. This time he goes on the outside but cracks an effort from a tight angle straight at Butland.
WATCH! Kingsley fires in Hearts equaliser against Rangers
18:52 , Jamie Braidwood64 mins: It’s been so much better from Hearts since half-time.
🎙️ “It’s a cool finish!”
— Sky Sports Scotland (@ScotlandSky) May 4, 2026
Stephen Kingsley finds the equaliser for Hearts against Rangers. It’s GAME ON here at Tynecastle, watch it all live on Sky 📺 pic.twitter.com/4poqHJATf2
Hearts 1-1 Rangers
18:51 , Jamie Braidwood61 mins: Steinwender is bandaged up and ready to continue. It as you were...
As it stands: Scottish Premiership title race
1) Hearts | Pld, 35: Pts: 74 (+31 GD)
2) Celtic | Pld, 35: Pts: 73 (+27 GD)
3) Rangers | Pld, 35: Pts: 70 (+34 GD)
Hearts 1-1 Rangers
18:47 , Jamie Braidwood58 mins: Another long throw from Tavernier causes some trouble. Fernandez meets it, but Schwolow makes the save. Steinwender has taken a knock.
Meanwhile, a draw suits Celtic again...
GOAL! Hearts 1-1 Rangers (KINGSLEY 54')
18:42 , Jamie BraidwoodWOOOW! Hearts are level! That was coming! The half-time changes have worked and now Hearts are back in it. Kyziridis is so unlucky. The winger’s curling shot crashes against the post. But Kingsley, now out on the left as a wing-back, is there to pass in the rebound! Tynecastle is rocking again!
Hearts 0-1 Rangers
18:42 , Jamie Braidwood53 mins: SAVE! A sight of goal for Braga! Hearts come again and the forward works some space in the box, but his low shot is saved by Butland.
At the other end, Chermiti almost works his way through. Skov Olsen then fires straight at Schwolow.
Hearts 0-1 Rangers
18:41 , Jamie Braidwood52 mins: Hearts have found something at least. A good switch from Kingsley finds Kyziridis but there’s no one in maroon in the box.
Hearts 0-1 Rangers
18:39 , Jamie Braidwood51 mins: There’s wrestling in the box from a long Tavernier throw but Chermiti fouls Findlay.
Hearts 0-1 Rangers
18:38 , Jamie Braidwood49 mins: Better from Hearts! A flick from Kyziridis sets up Shankland and the striker’s shot looks to be troubling Butland before Rangers get the block in. Spittal then drags wide.
Hearts 0-1 Rangers
18:35 , Jamie Braidwood46 mins: A challenge from Djiga in the box leaves Braga down in pain. The forward almost wriggled through but Djiga recovered well. Braga is now back up.
KICK-OFF! Hearts 0-1 Rangers
18:34 , Jamie BraidwoodBack underway at Tynecastle. No surprise that McInnes has put another man into midfield.
Hearts 0-1 Rangers
18:33 , Jamie BraidwoodDanny Rohl had called on Rangers to give a performance over 90 minutes on Friday, given their inconsistency in games this season. Derek McInnes has responded by bringing on derby hero Blair Spittal, who replaces Chesnokov.
HALF TIME! Hearts 0-1 Rangers
18:31 , Jamie BraidwoodOn Sky Sports, pundits Chris Sutton and Kris Boyd agree that Rangers have been dominant. "Hearts look like they are a man down. That's how good Rangers have been,” says Boyd. Sutton adds: "Hearts are fortunate that they're still in this game Rangers have been dominant. They've always got a spare man in the middle, and they've had control.“
Second half coming next.
HALF TIME! Hearts 0-1 Rangers
18:23 , Jamie BraidwoodAS IT STANDS: Scottish Premiership title race
1) Hearts | Pld, 35: Pts: 73 (+30 GD)
2) Celtic | Pld, 35: Pts: 73 (+27 GD)
3) Rangers | Pld, 35: Pts: 72 (+35 GD)
HALF TIME! Hearts 0-1 Rangers
18:22 , Jamie BraidwoodThe stats tell a story. Rohl changed his formation and Rangers have dominated the midfield with Chukwuani, Raskin and Diomande getting the better of Baningime and Leonard. Hearts almost have to play with Braga and Shankland, but it’s created an imbalance and Rangers are making the most of it. It feels as if McInnes will change something at the break.
HALF TIME! Hearts 0-1 Rangers
18:18 , Jamie BraidwoodRangers get to half time in front and in charge. Hearts have offered very little since Dujon Sterling’s deflected strike. It’s been very professional from Rangers - they have shut Hearts down so far.
Hearts 0-1 Rangers
18:17 , Jamie Braidwood45 mins: One minute of added time and Rangers get into a decent position as Moore finds the overlapping Tavernier. Hearts scramble it away, but it again does not stick up front.
Hearts 0-1 Rangers
18:15 , Jamie Braidwood44 mins: An interception from Shankland deep into Rangers’ half is greeted by an enormous roar from the home fans. They have had little to shout about this half.
Hearts 0-1 Rangers
18:13 , Jamie Braidwood42 mins: McInnes is frantically scribbling in his notepad before half-time. Rangers have been dominant since taking the lead. Hearts need to change something.
Hearts 0-1 Rangers
18:11 , Jamie Braidwood41 mins: Tavernier hits the wall, having complained that Hearts were not keeping their distance.
Hearts 0-1 Rangers
18:10 , Jamie Braidwood39 mins: Djiga steps in well to cut out a Hearts attack and Rangers turn defence into attack with a sweeping ball from Skov Olsen. Chesnokov crashes into the back of Diomande and Rangers get a free-kick in a very nice position on the edge of the box for Tavernier to line one up.
Hearts 0-1 Rangers
18:08 , Jamie Braidwood37 mins: Shankland catches Fernandez with a late challenge - the Hearts captain seemed frustrated there, and gets a booking for his troubles. Rangers’ Chukwuani is also booked for his protests.
Hearts 0-1 Rangers
18:06 , Jamie Braidwood35 mins: Diomande almost picks out Skov Olsen’s run. The Danish international was free and could have knocked it across the face of goal, where Chermiti was waiting.
Hearts 0-1 Rangers
18:05 , Jamie Braidwood33 mins: Leonard picks out Finlay at the back post from a free-kick but Butland comes off his line to claim the second ball. Good goalkeeping.
Hearts 0-1 Rangers
18:02 , Jamie Braidwood30 mins: Braga slips on the edge of the box as Shankland looked to set him up. It’s just not falling Hearts’ way so far. Rangers are stroking the ball around confidently when they get it back, the three-man midfield is working well for the visitors.
Hearts 0-1 Rangers
18:00 , Jamie Braidwood29 mins: Hearts have to balance the need to get something going here and not panicking, reminding themselves there’s plenty of time left. Rangers have gripped control of this game, though. It’s been some response from Rohl’s side from last weekend’s defeat to Motherwell.
WATCH! Sterling's deflected shot bundles Rangers into early lead
17:58 , Jamie BraidwoodJust the start Rangers wanted!
🎙️ “A good connection from Dujon Sterling!”
— Sky Sports Scotland (@ScotlandSky) May 4, 2026
Rangers take the lead over Hearts at Tynecastle 🔵 pic.twitter.com/0lfJoEFbSJ
Hearts 0-1 Rangers
17:57 , Jamie BraidwoodThe Hearts supporters respond immediately by getting behind their team, but the 600 or so Rangers fans tucked into the away end are noisy now! This is what it means...
AS IT STANDS: Scottish Premiership title race
1) Hearts | Pld, 35: Pts: 73 (+30 GD)
2) Celtic | Pld, 35: Pts: 73 (+27 GD)
3) Rangers | Pld, 35: Pts: 72 (+35 GD)
GOAL! Hearts 0-1 Rangers (STERLING 22')
17:53 , Jamie BraidwoodRANGERS LEAD AT HEARTS! A HUGE SWING IN THE TITLE RACE AS DUJON STERLING POKES THE VISITORS IN FRONT!
We said set-pieces would be big! From Tavernier’s long throw, Hearts fail to clear and Sterling bundles the ball in! The deflected effort bounces up and over Schwolow and into the top corner.
Wow.
Hearts 0-0 Rangers
17:50 , Jamie Braidwood19 mins: HUGE CHANCE! Tavernier’s corner falls to Chukwuani at the back post! He is wide open, but heads well over from two yards out! Rohl holds his head in his hands.
Given how the game has gone so far, set-pieces feel absolutely vital.
Hearts 0-0 Rangers
17:48 , Jamie Braidwood17 mins: It keeps coming back for Hearts. Shankland and Braga aren’t making the ball stick when Hearts clear. This has been good from Rangers so far, given the challenge facing them.
Hearts 0-0 Rangers
17:46 , Jamie Braidwood14 mins: Schwolow punches Tavernier’s corner and Diomande’s volley is then blocked. Hearts manage to clear, but this is a good spell from Rangers. Moore’s path is then blocked by Baningime in that frantic midfield battle.
Hearts 0-0 Rangers
17:44 , Jamie Braidwood13 mins: Danger from Rangers! Moore makes a clever run and gets into the box before flashing a ball across goal. Raskin is then alive and his cross deflects goalward, forcing Schwolow to put it behind.
Hearts 0-0 Rangers
17:42 , Jamie Braidwood11 mins: Chermiti fouls Kingsley and this will give Leonard a chance to swing it in... Halkett arrives at the back post but heads over! That’s a chance!
Hearts 0-0 Rangers
17:40 , Jamie Braidwood9 mins: Braga fouls Djiga when competing for a long ball. Then Findlay challenges Chermiti when Rangers go long. Celtic are probably liking what they see so far: it’s tight.
Hearts 0-0 Rangers
17:38 , Jamie Braidwood7 mins: Tavernier plays a lovely switch to Sterling, who has indeed started at left back. Kyziridis tracks back well to match him.
Hearts 0-0 Rangers
17:36 , Jamie Braidwood5 mins: Chukwuani does well to step across Braga as the player of the year looked to get to the byline. Danny Rohl predicted that 50/50 duels would be important and each one is being contested fiercely.
Hearts 0-0 Rangers
17:34 , Jamie Braidwood3 mins: Kyziridis looks for Shankland but the run didn’t follow. Every Rangers touch is greeted by boos and it’s ear-splitting as the visitors knock it around the back.
Hearts 0-0 Rangers
17:33 , Jamie Braidwood2 mins; A frantic start as expected. Rangers clear the first sign of trouble and Skov Olsen almost breaks away, but the pass to him is overhit. Diomande’s cross is guided through.
Hearts 0-0 Rangers
17:31 , Jamie BraidwoodWe are underway! What a game we have in store.
Hearts v Rangers LIVE: Kick-off next
17:30 , Jamie BraidwoodWOW it is loud as Lawrence Shankland and James Tavernier lead the players out. Tony Bloom is also in attendance as the Hearts song is belted out by those in maroon.
Kick-off is next. There’s going to be twists and turns in this title race, yet, surely?
Reminder of team news and how to watch Hearts v Rangers
17:27 , Jamie BraidwoodHearts XI: Schwolow; Steinwender, Halkett, Findlay, Kingsley; Baningime, Leonard; Kyziridis, Braga, Chesnokov; Shankland
Subs: Fulton, Kent, McCart, Kabore, Spittal, Forrest, Altena, Kerjota, Mato.
Rangers XI: Butland; Tavernier, Fernandez, Djiga, Sterling; Chukwuani, Raskin, Diomande; Moore, Skov Olsen, Chermiti.
Subs: Kelly, Rommens, Aarons, Barron, Aasgaard, Gassama, Antman, Naderi, Miovski
:: It will be shown on Sky Sports Main Event and Sky Sports Football.
Hearts v Rangers LIVE: Atmosphere building before kick-off!
17:24 , Jamie BraidwoodTynecastle is a wonderful place to watch football and the atmosphere is cranked up to level 10 ahead of the visit of Rangers on this Monday evening! Hearts are unbeaten at home this season and this is arguably the biggest game Tynecastle has staged in a generation. It is rocking before kick-off, with ‘Hey Jude’ ringing out as Hearts fans wave their maroon and white scarves.
Will Youssef Chermiti strike again against Hearts?
17:21 , Jamie BraidwoodDanny Rohl talked up the example of Rangers striker Youssef Chermiti on Friday. The much-maligned striker has hit form in recent weeks, and has already scored four goals against Hearts this season, including a hat-trick at Ibrox in their last meeting and another at Tynecastle in December.
Eight of his 12 goals have been against Hearts or Celtic.
Hearts celebrate double in PFA awards night
17:16 , Jamie BraidwoodDerek McInness and Claudio Braga both picked up prizes last night in the PFA Scotland awards. McInnes won manager of the year after guiding Hearts to the summit of the table and keeping them there since October in what has been his first year of the club. Portuguese forward Braga won player of the year, having scored 14 goals in his first season since arriving from Norwegian side Aalesund.
Hearts and Rangers remaining fixtures after today
17:07 , Jamie BraidwoodThis was the first of three massive weekends, plus a midweek, between now and the end of the season.
Saturday May 9
Motherwell v Heart of Midlothian (2000)
Sunday May 10
Celtic v Rangers (1200)
Wednesday May 13
Heart of Midlothian v Falkirk (2000)
Motherwell v Celtic (2000)
Rangers v Hibernian (2000)
Saturday May 16
Celtic v Heart of Midlothian (1230)
Falkirk v Rangers (1230)
Who is Martin O'Neill backing: Hearts or Rangers?
16:55 , Jamie BraidwoodCeltic boss Martin O’Neill insisted he “genuinely” didn’t know if he would prefer to see Hearts or Rangers win today after his side moved level on points with the leaders.
"Even if we won the rest of the games, we're not guaranteed to win the league, because, if Hearts won all their games, they've got a better goal difference than us,” O’Neill then told the BBC. "So maybe a draw. With a draw, at least people drop points."
Hearts' record against Celtic and Rangers this season
16:43 , Jamie BraidwoodDerek McInnes still refers to Hearts as the “underdog” in the title fight, but the reason they are top is because of their record of turning up to the big occasions. They have already beaten both Rangers and Celtic twice this season.
Another couple of victories against the Old Firm and their stranglehold on the title will be broken for the first time since 1985. Fittingly, Sir Alex Ferguson’s Aberdeen, the last champions outside of Glasgow’s big two, were also the last team to beat Rangers and Celtic five times in a single campaign.
That’s what Hearts can achieve today.
Rangers team news: James Tavernier back for visitors
16:31 , Jamie BraidwoodDeparting Rangers captain James Tavernier comes back into the side for the trip to Hearts, with Dujon Sterling likely to go over to the left with Tuur Rommens only fit enough to make the bench. There are further changes from the defeat to Motherwell with Mikey Moore, Andreas Skov Olsen and Mohamed Diomande coming into the forward line behind Youssef Chermiti.
Rangers XI: Butland; Tavernier, Fernandez, Djiga, Sterling; Chukwuani, Raskin, Diomande; Moore, Skov Olsen, Chermiti.
Subs: Kelly, Rommens, Aarons, Barron, Aasgaard, Gassama, Antman, Naderi, Miovski
Hearts team news: Kyziridis and Chesnokov back for Hearts
16:29 , Jamie BraidwoodDerek McInnes makes two changes from last weekend’s win at Hibs. Alexandros Kyziridis and Islam Chesnokov come in for Pierre Landry Kabore and Jordi Altena. Cammy Devlin or Harry Milne both miss out. Blair Spittal, the hero at Easter Road last week, starts on the bench again, as does the equally impactful Sabah Kerjota.
Hearts XI: Schwolow; Steinwender, Halkett, Findlay, Kingsley; Baningime, Leonard; Kyziridis, Braga, Chesnokov; Shankland
Subs: Fulton, Kent, McCart, Kabore, Spittal, Forrest, Altena, Kerjota, Mato.
Hearts v Rangers team news and confirmed line-ups
16:22 , Jamie BraidwoodHearts XI: Schwolow; Steinwender, Halkett, Findlay, Kingsley; Baningime, Leonard; Kyziridis, Braga, Chesnokov; Shankland
Rangers XI: Butland; Tavernier, Djiga, Fernandez, Sterling; Chukwauni, Diomande; Skov Olsen, Raskin, Moore; Chermiti
📋 TEAM NEWS
— Heart of Midlothian FC (@JamTarts) May 4, 2026
Today's XI to take on Rangers at Tynecastle Park 🇱🇻 pic.twitter.com/JkYu9olnPZ
💙 Our Starting XI to face Hearts.
— Rangers Football Club (@RangersFC) May 4, 2026
Team News | https://t.co/RFkevgiCkr pic.twitter.com/66XEApQ9bz
'It’s a brilliant game to be involved in': McInnes on Rangers clash
16:10 , Jamie BraidwoodHearts boss Derek McInnes was relishing the occasion of hosting Rangers on a Monday evening, as the Edinburgh side build up to their biggest home match of a generation.
“There’s obviously a lot riding on the game and we can’t downplay that – why would we?,” he said. “It’s a brilliant game to be involved in. All the Hearts supporters I’ve spoken to are eagerly anticipating the game. Monday 5.30 is an unusual kick-off time but it’s not going to dilute what’s going to be unfolding. The start of the game will be magnificent, and hopefully the end of the game is even better.”
'We need a result and a bit of help': Rohl on challenge facing Rangers
15:55 , Jamie Braidwood“We need, in the next four games, performances at nearly and maybe sometimes over 100 per cent to take the points. I think this is crucial now. You cannot just play 95 per cent or just 45 minutes of good football. You have to play it over the full time and this is a big part in this game.
“Of course, after Sunday [against Motherwell], we were down, but we had not the feeling that anyone’s given up. This is what I like. And this is general, if you ask all the three teams at the moment, all the three teams will say they can win. Now we need a result from our side and a little bit of help. But there is a big, big belief.”
Why a shock Hearts title would hurt Rangers most of all
15:40 , Jamie BraidwoodIn the week Claudio Braga talked up the prospect of Hearts winning a historic title as a “beautiful story” that could be enjoyed “around the world”, it was a reminder of how nightmarish a scenario it would be for others in Scotland. Naturally, supporters of Hibernian are dreading the idea of their Edinburgh neighbours winning a first league title since 1960, in what would be the equivalent of doomsday on Easter Road, but the greater hurt may actually be felt over in Glasgow.
Last time out: Rangers stunned by Motherwell at Ibrox
15:25 , Jamie BraidwoodRangers suffered a serious title blow last weekend with a 3-2 defeat by Motherwell at Ibrox. Danny Rohl’s team had battled back from two goals down for the second game in a row, only for Emmanuel Longelo’s drive in the final minute of normal time to leave Rangers in third place in the three-way title fight.
Victory at Tynecastle today is surely a must. Rangers certainly cannot afford to lose. If they do, they will be seven points behind Hearts with three games to go.
Last time out: Hearts beat nine-man Hibs
15:10 , Jamie BraidwoodHearts were fearing the worst when Martin Boyle scored early for rivals Hibs at Easter Road, but then the Edinburgh derby turned when home goalkeeper Raphael Sallinger was sent off for handling outside the box before Felix Passlack was also dismissed just three minutes into the second half.
Hearts huffed and puffed, but eventually broke the nine-men of Hibs down when Lawrence Shankland’s flick led to an own goal by Warren O’Hora and substitute Blair Spittal grabbed the winner, with Sabah Kerjota creating both goals for Derek McInnes’ side. With four games to go, it could go down as a famous Edinburgh derby victory.
The latest Premiership standings after Celtic's win at Hibs
14:55 , Jamie BraidwoodCeltic certainly had some nervy moments against 10-man Hibs yesterday, but Kelechi Iheanacho’s winner from the bench in the 72nd minute kept Martin O’Neill’s side on track with a fourth consecutive victory.
Scottish Premiership title race
1) Hearts | Pld, 34: Pts: 73 (+31 GD)
2) Celtic | Pld, 35: Pts: 73 (+27 GD)
3) Rangers | Pld, 34: Pts: 69 (+34 GD)
Is Hearts v Rangers on TV? Channel, streaming and how to watch Premiership title clash
14:40 , Jamie BraidwoodIt will be shown on Sky Sports Main Event and Sky Sports Football.
Is Hearts v Rangers on TV? Channel, streaming and how to watch Premiership clash
What is the Rangers team news?
14:34 , Jamie BraidwoodDanny Rohl said on Friday that left-back Tuur Rommens, striker Ryan Naderi and defender John Souttar were doubts.
What is the Hearts team news?
14:32 , Jamie BraidwoodDerek McInnes was hoping that one of Cammy Devlin or Harry Milne could potentially return after missing the win over nine-man Hibs last weekend. That would certainly be a boost for the leaders, who switched to a back three last week.
Good afternoon
14:30 , Jamie BraidwoodThere are momentous days in Scotland. A three-way title race for the ages is heading down to the wire as Tynecastle hosts the latest installment of a thrilling fight between Hearts, Celtic and Rangers this evening.
Leaders Hearts are bidding for their first league title since 1960, a victory that would make Derek McInnes and his players immortal in Edinburgh, and they are four wins away from breaking the Old Firm dominance that has stood since 1985.
Rangers slipped up last week against Motherwell and Danny Rohl’s will know that only a win will do as they arrive at Tynecastle four points behind. Celtic’s win at at Hibs yesterday has set things up rather well.
