The Tynecastle side Extend 8 Points Ahead Ahead at the Pinnacle After Shankland's Spot-Kick Sees Off The Hoops

History wasn't made at their home ground, as it's far too early for such milestones. The encounter underlined is that Hearts have a genuine strong chance of breaking Scottish football's long-standing stranglehold. They now lead by eight points for the team over Celtic, whom they decisively beat. Catch them if you can.

Decisive Period in the Second Half

A brief but pivotal phase were key, once the initial exchanges that was fiercely fought. What was so notable after they extended their advantage was how comfortable the closing stages of the game was for the home side. The Greek winger doubled the lead, drifting inside before thumping a right-footed shot past the static the goalkeeper. Delight increased in the stands, the Celtic defender bringing down the Hearts player for a penalty that the captain tucked away. Rodgers looked dejected; challenges abound for him.

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

Hoops' Reaction

Celtic bounced back 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. Celtic edged their way back into the game, the captain McGregor, scoring a Tierney pass for level terms.

Solid Backline

The Hearts goalkeeper Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Nygren in the first half, parried an Arne Engels shot which touched Tómas Magnússon. Halkett thwarted a Shin Yamada attempt in added time. They comfortably saw out the game as the clock ticked down. “We stand firm” has become the popular anthem at the ground. One cannot overlook the excitement.

• Full report coming soon.