The Tynecastle side Move Eight Points Clear in Front at Top Following Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Defeats Celtic

A historic moment didn't occur at Tynecastle, with it being far too early for such milestones. What this match did emphasise is that Hearts possess a real credible shot of disrupting Scottish football's long-standing stranglehold. Make that an eight-point lead for the team over their rivals, whom they comfortably swatted aside. The challenge is now for others.

Turning Point in the After the Break

A brief but pivotal phase were key, once the initial exchanges that was fiercely fought. The striking aspect after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how untroubled the closing stages of the game was for the Tynecastle team. The Greek winger doubled the lead, moving infield before firing a powerful effort past the static the goalkeeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Dane Murray upending Cláudio Braga for a foul that Shankland slotted home. The Celtic manager appeared frustrated; his problems are mounting.

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

Celtic's Response

Celtic bounced back from the hosts' quick opening. The defender, who endured a torrid afternoon, turned the ball into his own net due to panic when trying to remove a ball into the box. They gradually fought back into the game, leader McGregor, turning home a Tierney pull-back for the equaliser.

Stubborn Defence

The Hearts goalkeeper Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, blocked an Arne Engels shot which deflected off Magnússon. Craig Halkett stopped a Yamada attempt in stoppage time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the clock ticked down. “We stand firm” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the stadium. It's hard to ignore the noise.