The Tynecastle side Extend Eight Points Ahead at Top After Shankland's Penalty Overcomes Celtic

A historic moment didn't occur at their home ground, since it's far too early for such milestones. The encounter underlined is that Heart of Midlothian possess a real credible shot of ending Scottish football's four decade-long stranglehold. That advantage stands at eight points for the maroon side over their rivals, whom they decisively beat. Catch them if you can.

Turning Point in the Second Half

A crucial three-minute spell proved decisive, following a tight first half that was contested closely. The striking aspect after they extended their advantage was how stress-free the rest of the game was for the home side. Alexandros Kyziridis scored Hearts’ second, cutting in from the left before firing a powerful effort past the motionless the Celtic keeper. More joy followed in the stands, Murray fouling Cláudio Braga for a foul that Shankland slotted home. The Celtic manager appeared frustrated; challenges abound for him.

Fans start to rejoice after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against the opposition.

The Visitors' Fightback

The away side responded positively from the hosts' quick opening. The defender, who had a difficult day, conceded an own goal due to haste when trying to deal with a delivery from Shankland. Celtic edged their way back into the game, the captain McGregor, finishing a Tierney pull-back for the equaliser.

Stubborn Defence

The Hearts goalkeeper Alexander Schwolow, who had denied from Nygren in the first half, blocked an Arne Engels shot which flicked off Magnússon. Halkett blocked a Yamada attempt in stoppage time. They comfortably saw out the game as the minutes passed. “We shall not be moved” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the stadium. One cannot overlook the buzz.

• Detailed coverage to follow.