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

A historic moment didn't occur at their home ground, with it being far too early for such landmarks. What this match did emphasise is that Heart of Midlothian have a genuine serious opportunity of breaking Scottish football's four decade-long title duopoly. They now lead by eight points for the team over the visitors, whom they easily dispatched. Try to chase them down.

Key Moments in the Latter Period

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 rest of the game was for the Tynecastle team. The Greek winger scored Hearts’ second, cutting in from the left before blasting a strike past the motionless the Celtic keeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Dane Murray fouling Cláudio Braga for a penalty that the captain converted. Brendan Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; he hardly has his troubles to seek.

The crowd erupted after Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against the opposition.

Hoops' Reaction

The away side responded positively from Hearts’ rapid start. The defender, who endured a torrid afternoon, conceded an own goal due to confusion when trying to remove a ball into the box. The Hoops worked their way into the game, leader Callum McGregor, scoring a Kieran Tierney pull-back for level terms.

Stubborn Defence

The Hearts goalkeeper Alexander Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, parried an Arne Engels shot which touched Tómas Magnússon. Halkett stopped a Shin Yamada attempt in added time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the minutes passed. “We stand firm” has become the popular anthem at the stadium. One cannot overlook the excitement.

• Detailed coverage to follow.