Hearts Extend Eight Points Ahead in Front at the Pinnacle Following Shankland's Spot-Kick Defeats The Hoops

A historic moment didn't occur at Tynecastle Park, since it's far too early for such achievements. The encounter underlined is that Heart of Midlothian are at least in with credible shot of ending Scottish football's 40-year dominance by two. Make that an eight-point lead for the team over their rivals, whom they decisively beat. The challenge is now for others.

Turning Point in the Second Half

A crucial three-minute spell were key, once the initial exchanges that was evenly matched. The striking aspect after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how stress-free the remainder of the game was for the Tynecastle team. Kyziridis netted the second goal, cutting in from the left before firing a powerful effort past the stationary the Celtic keeper. More joy followed in the stands, the Celtic defender fouling Cláudio Braga for a foul that Lawrence Shankland slotted home. Brendan Rodgers looked dejected; challenges abound for him.

Fans start to rejoice after Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against Celtic.

The Visitors' Fightback

The away side responded positively from Hearts’ rapid start. Murray, who had a difficult day, turned the ball into his own net due to panic when trying to remove a ball into the box. Celtic edged their way back into the game, leader Callum McGregor, scoring a Tierney pass for level terms.

Stubborn Defence

The shot-stopper Alexander Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Nygren in the first half, kept out an Engels shot which touched Magnússon. Halkett stopped a Yamada attempt in stoppage time. They comfortably saw out the game as the clock ticked down. “We remain resolute” has become the favoured chant at Tynecastle. One cannot overlook the buzz.

• Full report to follow.