Scotland round-up: Kyogo Furuhashi brace puts pressure back on Rangers

Celtic moved six points clear of Rangers at the top of the cinch Premiership thanks to a 3-0 victory over third-placed Hearts, while Livingston suffered relegation following a 4-1 thrashing at Motherwell.

Kyogo Furuhashi struck his first double of the season as Celtic maintained the prospect of a title party against Rangers.

The Japanese attacker was on target twice in the first quarter and Matt O’Riley converted a late penalty as the cinch Premiership leaders moved six points and eight goals ahead of Rangers, who host Kilmarnock on Sunday.

Anything less than a Rangers win against the Ayrshire side would give Celtic the chance to clinch a third consecutive title when they host their city rivals next Saturday.

Even if Rangers beat Kilmarnock, a derby win for Brendan Rodgers’ side would leave them on the verge of championship success and they warmed up for the biggest game of the season with an impressive display at a noisy Celtic Park.

A string of saves from Hearts goalkeeper Zander Clark prevented Celtic from further consolidating their goal difference advantage.

Rangers can reduce the gap back to three points on Sunday when they play their game in hand at home to Kilmarnock, ahead of next week’s Old Firm derby at Celtic Park.

Livingston’s return to the Championship following a six-season stay in the top tier was confirmed by a Theo Bair double, including one from the penalty spot, and goals from Sam Nicholson and Dan Casey at Fir Park.

Joel Nouble claimed a consolation for Livi, who were unable to earn a further stay of execution after last week’s 2-0 success over fellow strugglers Ross County.

The Staggies bounced back from that damaging defeat to climb out of the relegation play-off place – above St Johnstone – thanks to a 2-1