Hearts Push Eight Points Ahead Clear at Top Following Shankland's Spot-Kick Overcomes Celtic

A historic moment didn't occur at their home ground, as it's far too early for such achievements. This game highlighted is that Heart of Midlothian possess a real strong chance of ending Scottish football's 40-year title duopoly. That advantage stands at eight points for Hearts over their rivals, whom they comfortably swatted aside. The challenge is now for others.

Key Moments in the Latter Period

Three second-half minutes were key, after an opening period that was contested closely. What was so notable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how stress-free the closing stages of the game was for the Tynecastle team. Alexandros Kyziridis netted the second goal, drifting inside before thumping a right-footed shot past the stationary the Celtic keeper. Delight increased in the stands, Dane Murray fouling Cláudio Braga for a spot-kick that Lawrence Shankland converted. The Celtic manager looked dejected; he hardly has his troubles to seek.

Supporters began celebrating after Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against the opposition.

Celtic's Response

Celtic had actually recovered well from the hosts' quick opening. Dane Murray, who struggled throughout, turned the ball into his own net due to panic when trying to clear a delivery from Shankland. They gradually fought back into the game, skipper Callum McGregor, turning home a Kieran Tierney pull-back for 1-1.

Solid Backline

The Hearts goalkeeper Alexander Schwolow, who had denied from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, kept out an Engels shot which touched Magnússon. Craig Halkett blocked a Shin Yamada attempt in the dying moments. They comfortably saw out the game as the minutes passed. “We remain resolute” has become the favoured chant at Tynecastle. One cannot overlook the buzz.

• Full report coming soon.