The midfielder showed why Celtic paid Motherwell STG3 million ($A5.5 million) for his services in August last year when he sent a swerving effort past a motionless Liam Kelly and into the top corner to ice the win for the visitors.

Jota had scored a well-taken but controversial early opener, with the hosts unhappy with a decision not to award them a foul by referee Willie Collum, who went off injured during the first half.

Celtic went on to record back-to-back away victories, moving to fourth on the ladder and reducing the deficit on Premiership leaders Rangers to four points.

Craig Halkett scored a last-minute equaliser for Hearts to draw 1-1 with Rangers at Ibrox in their top-of-the-table clash.

John Lundstram struck first for Rangers in the 40th minute with a shot from 25 yards.

The visitors pressed in the second half and defender Halkett headed in the equaliser in the 90th minute to leave Hearts just a point below Rangers in second place.

Dundee United moved up to third with a 3-0 win against Hibernian at Easter Road.

Nicky Clark netted just before half-time and Ryan Edwards' header doubled their lead before Kieran Freeman finished the game off.

Livingston beat St Johnstone 3-0 to move up to 10th.

Goals from Odin Bailey, Bruce Anderson and Scott Pittman gave the Lions their second win of the season.

Dundee climbed off the bottom of the table with a 2-1 victory against Aberdeen at Dens Park.

Leigh Griffiths and Luke McCowan netted to put the hosts in control before Christian Ramirez pulled a goal back after 67 minutes.

Dundee moved above Ross County, who lost 3-2 at home to St Mirren.

Eamonn Brophy and Marcus Fraser put Saints 2-0 up before a Blair Spittal free-kick was deflected off the wall and looped over St Mirren goalkeeper Jak Alnwick.

Scott Tanser extended Saints' lead and although Alex Iacovitti scored, St Mirren were able to hold on as the Staggies continue to search for their first win of the season.

Australian Associated Press