The Jambos Extend 8 Points in Front at Top After Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Sees Off The Hoops

We did not witness at Tynecastle, with it being far too early for such landmarks. The encounter underlined is that Hearts possess a real strong chance of ending Scottish football's long-standing stranglehold. That advantage stands at eight points for Hearts over Celtic, whom they decisively beat. The challenge is now for others.

Decisive Period in the After the Break

A crucial three-minute spell proved decisive, after an opening period that was evenly matched. The striking aspect after they extended their advantage was how untroubled the rest of the game was for the hosts. Alexandros Kyziridis scored Hearts’ second, moving infield before thumping a right-footed shot past the motionless the goalkeeper. Delight increased in the stands, Murray fouling the Hearts player for a spot-kick that the captain slotted home. Brendan Rodgers looked dejected; he hardly has his troubles to seek.

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

Celtic's Response

The away side responded positively from Hearts’ rapid start. Dane Murray, who had a difficult day, scored an own goal due to haste when trying to remove a Shankland cross. Celtic edged their way back into the game, the captain Callum McGregor, scoring a Tierney pass for the equaliser.

Stubborn Defence

The shot-stopper Schwolow, who had denied from Nygren in the first half, blocked an Engels shot which flicked off Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett stopped a Yamada attempt in the dying moments. They comfortably saw out the game as the game concluded. “We remain resolute” has become the favoured chant at Tynecastle. One cannot overlook the excitement.

• Full report coming soon.