Celtic extends Scottish lead with win over Hearts

TYNECASTLE, Scotland (AP) — Celtic extended its lead over Rangers atop of the Scottish Premier League with a decisive 4-0 win over Hearts on Wednesday.

Celtic captain Scott Brown opened the scoring in just the 3rd minute when he drove low shot past Hearts keeper Jamie MacDonald.

Midfielders Victor Wanyama and Joe Ledley scored in the 20th and 31st minutes to give Celtic a 3-0 lead heading into halftime.

Striker Gary Hooper sealed the win when he poached a goal from close range in the 60th minute.

Celtic now has 62 points to lead the standings from Rangers with 58. Hearts is in fourth place on 35, behind Motherwell on 41.