Hearts Move Eight Points Ahead in Front at the Summit After Lawrence Shankland's Spot-Kick Overcomes The Glasgow Giants

A historic moment didn't occur at Tynecastle Park, with it being far too early for such achievements. What this match did emphasise is that Hearts have a genuine serious opportunity of disrupting Scottish football's four decade-long title duopoly. Make that an eight-point lead for Hearts over the visitors, whom they comfortably swatted aside. Try to chase them down.

Turning Point in the Latter Period

A brief but pivotal phase made the difference, following a tight first half that was evenly matched. What was so notable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how untroubled the rest of the game was for the hosts. Kyziridis doubled the lead, 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 bringing down Cláudio Braga for a foul that Lawrence Shankland tucked away. Rodgers looked dejected; he hardly has his troubles to seek.

The crowd erupted after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against the opposition.

Celtic's Response

Celtic bounced back from an early setback. Dane Murray, who endured a torrid afternoon, conceded an own goal due to confusion when trying to deal with a Shankland cross. The Hoops worked their way into the game, leader McGregor, finishing a Kieran Tierney pass for 1-1.

Hearts' Defensive Resilience

The Hearts goalkeeper Alexander Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, kept out an Engels shot which flicked off Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett stopped a Shin Yamada attempt in stoppage time. They comfortably saw out the game as the clock ticked down. “We stand firm” has become the popular anthem at Tynecastle. One cannot overlook the excitement.

• Full report to follow.