Stokes doubles up for Celtic

IRELAND international Anthony Stokes scored twice as Scottish Premier League leaders Celtic hammered Hearts 4-0 last night.

James Forrest put the home side in control after just seven minutes and after Stokes grabbed a brace, the first a fine free-kick, the second a close-range finish on 71 minutes, Paddy McCourt put the icing on the cake with a fourth late on to end third-top Hearts’ 11-match unbeaten run.

Celtic’s title rivals Rangers also picked up three points, beating Hibernian 2-0 thanks to goals from Madjid Bougherra and Nikica Jelavic.

Last night’s results mean Celtic remain five points clear of the Gers. However. Walter Smith’s men have two games in hand.