Hearts Extend 8 Points Ahead at the Pinnacle After Lawrence Shankland's Spot-Kick Overcomes The Hoops

We did not witness at their home ground, with it being far too early for such milestones. This game highlighted is that Heart of Midlothian are at least in with strong chance of ending Scottish football's four decade-long stranglehold. Make that an eight-point lead for the maroon side over their rivals, whom they easily dispatched. Catch them if you can.

Decisive Period in the Latter Period

A brief but pivotal phase proved decisive, after an opening period that was evenly matched. It was remarkable after they extended their advantage was how untroubled the rest of the game was for the hosts. The Greek winger doubled the lead, moving infield before blasting a strike past the stationary the Celtic keeper. Delight increased in the stands, Murray fouling Braga for a foul that the captain tucked away. Brendan Rodgers looked dejected; challenges abound for him.

Fans start to rejoice after Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against the opposition.

Celtic's Response

The away side responded positively from the hosts' quick opening. Murray, who endured a torrid afternoon, turned the ball into his own net due to panic when trying to remove a Shankland cross. Celtic edged their way back into the game, leader McGregor, turning home a Kieran Tierney pass for level terms.

Hearts' Defensive Resilience

The shot-stopper Alexander Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Nygren in the first half, kept out an Arne Engels shot which deflected off Magnússon. Craig Halkett thwarted a Yamada attempt in stoppage time. The hosts faced little else as the clock ticked down. “We stand firm” has become the favoured chant at Tynecastle. It is becoming increasingly difficult the buzz.

• Full report to follow.