Scotland round-up: Rangers break free

Rangers FC took full advantage of Celtic FC's inactivity this weekend to move six points clear at the top of the Scottish Premier League.

Severin gaffe
With Celtic’s away trip to Motherwell FC postponed because of a frozen pitch, Rangers edged a 1-0 win over Heart of Midlothian FC at Ibrox after a headed own goal from Scott Severin, the Scottish international glancing in Mikel Arteta's 40th minute free-kick when put under pressure by Ronald de Boer. Celtic, however, still have a game in hand on their Glasgow rivals.

Dunfermline fourth
Dunfermline Atheltic FC went fourth and to within seven points of Hearts thanks to a 3-1 win over Hibernian FC. Gary Mason gave the home side a 20th-minute lead and Stevie Crawford made light of seeing his team go down to ten men following the dismissal of Ged Brannan by striking in the 39th and 55th minutes, taking his tally for the season to 16.

No recompense
Garry O'Connor's 67th-minute goal was scant consolation for Hibs, who must now regroup before facing Dunfermline again next Saturday in the fourth round of the Scottish Cup.

Aberdeen stroll
Aberdeen FC, meanwhile, slotted into ninth after a comfortable 3-0 victory over Dundee United FC on Sunday, Paul Sheerin scoring either side of half-time and Phil McGuire sealing the win with a late header.

Further postponements
Icy conditions also led to the postponement of Kilmarnock FC's home match with Partick Thistle FC and Dundee FC's encounter with Livingston FC.