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

We did not witness at Tynecastle, as it's far too early for such landmarks. What this match did emphasise is that the Edinburgh club have a genuine serious opportunity of breaking Scottish football's four decade-long stranglehold. Make that an eight-point lead for the team over Celtic, whom they easily dispatched. The challenge is now for others.

Decisive Period in the Second Half

Three second-half minutes made the difference, following a tight first half that was evenly matched. It was remarkable after they took a 3-1 lead was how comfortable the rest of the game was for the hosts. Alexandros Kyziridis doubled the lead, moving infield before blasting a strike past the static the Celtic keeper. More joy followed in the stands, Dane Murray upending Cláudio Braga for a foul that the captain tucked away. The Celtic manager looked dejected; his problems are mounting.

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

The Visitors' Fightback

Celtic had actually recovered well from the hosts' quick opening. The defender, who endured a torrid afternoon, conceded an own goal due to panic when trying to deal with a ball into the box. The Hoops worked their way into the game, the captain Callum McGregor, finishing a Kieran Tierney cutback for the equaliser.

Stubborn Defence

The Hearts goalkeeper Schwolow, who had denied from Nygren in the first half, blocked an Engels shot which flicked off Magnússon. Halkett thwarted a Shin Yamada attempt in the dying moments. The hosts faced little else as the clock ticked down. “We shall not be moved” has become the popular anthem at the stadium. One cannot overlook the buzz.

• Full report coming soon.