Jermain Defoe, Ryan Jack and Nikola Katic were on the scoresheet meaning Neil Lennon’s champions elect will have to put the champagne on ice, at least until next weekend’s clash with Kilmarnock at Celtic Park.
The Hoops, who were hoping to celebrate their eighth straight title against Hibernian on Sunday, have now had their lead at the top temporarily cut back to eight points after seeing Steven Gerrard’s side once again dominate Craig Levein’s William Hill Scottish Cup finalists.
Hearts should have been on a high after booking their slot in next month’s Hampden clash with Lennon’s triple treble-chasers but all they had to cheer was Steven MacLean’s late consolation effort.
For the fourth time this season, Hearts contributed to their own downfall against Rangers by failing to match up to the Light Blues’ desire when pressing.
This was a big chance for the Jambos squad to press their claim for a starting slot on cup final day but some may find themselves disappointed come May 25 after this display.