Even against the nine men of Hibernian, there was plenty to admire about Hearts' win at Easter Road on Sunday - but it was not without its warning signs.

The simplicity of Martin Boyle's early back-post finish will have concerned Derek McInnes and his staff. At this stage of the season, such lapses can prove costly.

There was no panic and no loss of structure from Hearts, who showed patience and belief with a two-man advantage.

Now attention turns to what could be the defining test of this run-in. Rangers arrive wounded after their late defeat to Motherwell at Ibrox, and how they respond will shape the contest on Monday night.

For Hearts, the equation is clear. Victory would not mathematically end Rangers' title hopes, but it would leave them hanging by the thinnest of threads.

A seven-point gap with only three matches remaining would shift the balance decisively, coming close to reducing the race from three contenders to two.

There is also cautious optimism on the team news front. Cammy Devlin and Harry Milne were fully engaged from the sidelines at the weekend, and McInnes will hope at least one can return to bolster his options at a crucial time.

Tynecastle has staged its share of big occasions in recent seasons, but this feels different. The stakes are higher and an intense and anxious atmosphere will take care of itself.

There will be no silverware handed out at full-time, but three points here would take this Hearts side a step closer to achieving something special.