Hearts Extend 8 Points Ahead Clear at Top After Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Kick Sees Off Celtic

A historic moment didn't occur at Tynecastle, since it's far too early for such milestones. This game highlighted is that Hearts are at least in with strong chance of disrupting Scottish football's long-standing dominance by two. That advantage stands at eight points for Hearts over Celtic, whom they easily dispatched. Catch them if you can.

Turning Point in the Second Half

A crucial three-minute spell proved decisive, after an opening period that was contested closely. What was so notable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how comfortable the closing stages of the game was for the home side. The Greek winger netted the second goal, drifting inside before firing a powerful effort past the motionless the goalkeeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Dane Murray upending the Hearts player for a foul that Lawrence Shankland tucked away. The Celtic manager cut such a disconsolate figure; he hardly has his troubles to seek.

Supporters began celebrating after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against Celtic.

Celtic's Response

Celtic had actually recovered well from Hearts’ rapid start. Murray, who had a difficult day, conceded an own goal due to panic when trying to deal with a Shankland cross. The Hoops worked their way into the game, skipper Callum McGregor, scoring a Tierney pass for level terms.

Hearts' Defensive Resilience

The keeper Schwolow, who had denied from Nygren in the first half, blocked an Arne Engels shot which touched Tómas Magnússon. Halkett blocked a Shin Yamada attempt in added 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 ground. It's hard to ignore the excitement.

• Complete analysis to follow.