The Gers can extend the margin again when they take on Kilmarnock tomorrow lunchtime, but Celtic did their bit with a thumping win this afternoon.

They led 2-0 inside eight minutes through Georgios Samaras and Hooper, and the former Scunthorpe man struck twice in four minutes early in the second half before substitute Dylan McGeough rounded off the win.

Third-placed Motherwell lost ground as they were held to a goalless draw at home to Dundee United in horrendous conditions.

St Johnstone and Hearts maintained their pursuit of the leading pack with wins today, Saints beating Hibernian 3-1 with goals from Francisco Sandaza, Marcus Haber and Dave MacKay after Richie Towell had given Hibs the lead.

Rudi Skacel and Eggert Jonsson earned Hearts a 2-1 win over Inverness, for whom Ross Tokely scored in between.

Dunfermline and Aberdeen shared the spoils after a thrilling finish at East End Park.

The Dons' Andrew Considine opened the scoring in first-half injury time but the hosts responded after the break through Andy Barrowman, David Graham and Liam Buchanan.

Alex Keddie gave Aberdeen hope with his own goal before Josh Magennis made amends for missing a series of earlier chances with a late equaliser.