Celtic claim Scottish title in style

Celtic hammered Kilmarnock 6-0 away to clinch the Scottish league title on Saturday and end the three-year reign of Glasgow rivals Rangers, who were deducted 10 points in February for entering financial administration.

Left back Charlie Mulgrew scored twice and set up Glenn Loovens and Gary Hooper for two more before Joe Ledley and Hooper added the gloss as Neil Lennon's side gained revenge on Kilmarnock for last month's League Cup final defeat.

Celtic, also in the semi-final of the Scottish Cup against Hearts next weekend, lead Rangers by an unassailable 21 points with their bitter foes having six games left including a home match with St Mirren later on Saturday.

Celtic's next home game is against Rangers but it has already been decided they will receive the league trophy on another occasion in order not to inflame tensions.

The "Hoops", who will enter the Champions League third qualifying round next term, could have won the title at Rangers last month but a 3-2 win for Ally McCoist's side at least gave the home fans a modicum of cheer.

Administrators are considering three bids for Rangers and hope to announce the acceptance of one offer next week.

The utter dominance of the Glasgow duo over Scottish football means Rangers are still likely to finish second despite their points deduction.