The Jambos Extend 8 Points Ahead at the Pinnacle After Shankland's Spot-Kick Overcomes Celtic

We did not witness at Tynecastle Park, since it's far too early for such landmarks. What this match did emphasise is that Heart of Midlothian have a genuine credible shot of ending Scottish football's 40-year title duopoly. They now lead by eight points for Hearts over the visitors, whom they comfortably swatted aside. Try to chase them down.

Key Moments in the After the Break

Three second-half minutes were key, once the initial exchanges that was contested closely. What was so notable after they extended their advantage was how stress-free the rest of the game was for the hosts. Kyziridis netted the second goal, cutting in from the left before thumping a right-footed shot past the stationary the Celtic keeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Murray fouling the Hearts player for a spot-kick that the captain slotted home. Rodgers looked dejected; his problems are mounting.

The crowd erupted after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against the opposition.

Celtic's Response

The away side responded positively from an early setback. Murray, who had a difficult day, scored an own goal due to confusion when trying to clear a delivery from Shankland. They gradually fought back into the game, skipper McGregor, turning home a Kieran Tierney cutback for the equaliser.

Stubborn Defence

The Hearts goalkeeper Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, parried an Arne Engels shot which touched Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett thwarted a Shin Yamada attempt in added time. They comfortably saw out the game as the minutes passed. “We shall not be moved” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the ground. One cannot overlook the noise.

• Detailed coverage to follow.