Hearts beat Aberdeen to move seven points clear in title race
Hearts have taken a significant step towards a historic Scottish Premiership title by beating Aberdeen to move seven points clear at the summit.
Sir Alex Ferguson was the guest of honour at Tynecastle as the Edinburgh side ground out a vital 1-0 victory.
The legendary former Manchester United manager was the last boss to guide a non-Old Firm club to the trophy, achieving the feat with the Dons in 1985.
With just nine games remaining, the Jam Tarts are now firm favourites to end four decades of Glasgow dominance.
McInnes praises ‘raucous’ support
Manager Derek McInnes revealed he shared a drink with the 84-year-old Scot following the full-time whistle.
“We got him a nice bottle to take home with him but he opened it already,” McInnes said.
“I’m just glad he saw the team win, he saw Tynecastle the way it was today.”
The hosts were rarely threatened defensively, though the narrow scoreline added to the palpable atmosphere in the capital.
Claudio Braga proved the difference maker once again, netting the solitary goal to secure a second consecutive victory.
‘Unbelievable’ Braga drives charge
The Portuguese forward has been a revelation since arriving from Norwegian football, taking his tally to 15 goals in 35 appearances.
McInnes was quick to laud the contribution of his tireless striker, who is currently managing a groin issue.
“His output is unbelievable, it always has been,” the Hearts boss added.
“His fitness, he’s absolutely dedicated to his craft. He makes the sacrifices.”
Braga admitted the squad can feel the anticipation building within the stadium as the season reaches its climax.
“Now we’re getting to a point with maybe just a little bit more tension,” the match-winner told BBC Scotland.
“We feel it from the stands a little bit. It’s normal. At the same time, we know we can do this.”
Tough tests remain in run-in
Despite the comfortable cushion, significant hurdles remain in the quest to end a 41-year wait for a champion outside the Old Firm.
McInnes’ side face high-flying Motherwell twice before the campaign concludes.
Trips to Celtic Park and Easter Road are also likely post-split, alongside a visit from Rangers, who defeated them at Ibrox earlier this month.