The Jambos Extend Eight Points Clear Clear at the Pinnacle Following Shankland's Spot-Kick Defeats Celtic

We did not witness at Tynecastle, since it's far too early for such landmarks. This game highlighted is that Hearts have a genuine credible shot of disrupting Scottish football's 40-year dominance by two. Make that an eight-point lead for the team over their rivals, whom they comfortably swatted aside. Try to chase them down.

Decisive Period in the Second Half

A brief but pivotal phase proved decisive, following a tight first half that was evenly matched. It was remarkable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how stress-free the closing stages of the game was for the hosts. Kyziridis doubled the lead, drifting inside before blasting a strike past the static Kasper Schmeichel. More joy followed in the stands, Murray fouling the Hearts player for a foul that the captain slotted home. The Celtic manager looked dejected; he hardly has his troubles to seek.

Supporters began celebrating after Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against the opposition.

The Visitors' Fightback

Celtic had actually recovered well from Hearts’ rapid start. Dane Murray, who struggled throughout, conceded an own goal due to confusion when trying to clear a ball into the box. The Hoops worked their way into the game, the captain Callum McGregor, scoring a Tierney pull-back for the equaliser.

Stubborn Defence

The Hearts goalkeeper Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, kept out an Engels shot which flicked off Magnússon. 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 excitement.

• Detailed coverage to follow.