The Tynecastle side Push 8 Points Ahead Clear at the Summit Following Shankland's Penalty Kick Overcomes Celtic

We did not witness at Tynecastle, as it's far too early for such landmarks. The encounter underlined is that the Edinburgh club possess a real strong chance of ending Scottish football's long-standing stranglehold. They now lead by eight points for the maroon side over the visitors, whom they comfortably swatted aside. Catch them if you can.

Turning Point in the Latter Period

A brief but pivotal phase proved decisive, following a tight first half that was contested closely. It was remarkable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how untroubled the remainder of the game was for the home side. The Greek winger scored Hearts’ second, cutting in from the left before thumping a right-footed shot past the static Kasper Schmeichel. More joy followed in the stands, the Celtic defender fouling Braga for a spot-kick that Shankland 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.

Hoops' Reaction

Celtic bounced back from the hosts' quick opening. Dane Murray, who had a difficult day, turned the ball into his own net due to haste when trying to clear a Shankland cross. They gradually fought back into the game, the captain McGregor, finishing a Kieran Tierney pass for level terms.

Stubborn Defence

The shot-stopper Alexander Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Nygren in the first half, parried an Engels shot which touched Tómas Magnússon. Halkett blocked a Shin Yamada attempt in added time. They comfortably saw out the game as the minutes passed. “We stand firm” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at Tynecastle. One cannot overlook the noise.

• Complete analysis coming soon.