The Tynecastle side Extend 8 Points Clear at the Pinnacle Following Lawrence Shankland's Spot-Kick Overcomes Celtic

History wasn't made at Tynecastle Park, since it's far too early for such landmarks. What this match did emphasise is that the Edinburgh club possess a real serious opportunity of disrupting Scottish football's four decade-long stranglehold. That advantage stands at eight points for the team over Celtic, whom they decisively beat. Catch them if you can.

Turning Point in the Second Half

Three second-half minutes were key, following a tight first half that was fiercely fought. What was so notable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how untroubled the rest of the game was for the home side. The Greek winger netted the second goal, moving infield before blasting a strike past the motionless Kasper Schmeichel. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Dane Murray upending the Hearts player for a spot-kick that the captain converted. Rodgers appeared frustrated; his problems are mounting.

Fans start to rejoice after Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against Celtic.

Hoops' Reaction

The away side responded positively from an early setback. The defender, who had a difficult day, scored an own goal due to confusion when trying to clear a Shankland cross. The Hoops worked their way into the game, leader Callum McGregor, turning home a Kieran Tierney pull-back for the equaliser.

Stubborn Defence

The shot-stopper Alexander Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, parried an Engels shot which deflected off Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett stopped a Yamada attempt in added time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the clock ticked down. “We remain resolute” has become the popular anthem at the stadium. One cannot overlook the excitement.

• Full report to follow.