Hearts Push 8 Points Ahead at Top Following Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Kick Overcomes The Hoops

History wasn't made at Tynecastle Park, as it's far too early for such achievements. This game highlighted is that the Edinburgh club are at least in with credible shot of ending Scottish football's 40-year title duopoly. That advantage stands at eight points for the maroon side over Celtic, whom they decisively beat. Try to chase them down.

Decisive Period in the Second Half

A brief but pivotal phase were key, after an opening period that was contested closely. The striking aspect after they took a 3-1 lead was how comfortable the closing stages of the game was for the hosts. The Greek winger netted the second goal, cutting in from the left before firing a powerful effort past the stationary Kasper Schmeichel. More joy followed in the stands, Dane Murray bringing down the Hearts player for a spot-kick that Lawrence Shankland slotted home. The Celtic manager appeared frustrated; he hardly has his troubles to seek.

The crowd erupted after Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against Celtic.

Celtic's Response

The away side responded positively from the hosts' quick opening. The defender, who endured a torrid afternoon, scored an own goal due to panic when trying to clear a delivery from Shankland. They gradually fought back into the game, the captain Callum McGregor, scoring a Kieran Tierney pull-back for the equaliser.

Solid Backline

The Hearts goalkeeper Alexander Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Nygren in the first half, blocked an Engels shot which touched Tómas Magnússon. Halkett stopped a Yamada attempt in the dying moments. The hosts faced little else as the clock ticked down. “We shall not be moved” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the ground. One cannot overlook the excitement.

• Detailed coverage coming soon.