The Jambos Push 8 Points Clear Ahead at the Pinnacle Following Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Defeats The Hoops

We did not witness at Tynecastle Park, with it being far too early for such milestones. What this match did emphasise is that the Edinburgh club have a genuine serious opportunity of disrupting Scottish football's long-standing dominance by two. They now lead by eight points for Hearts over Celtic, whom they easily dispatched. Catch them if you can.

Turning Point in the After the Break

Three second-half minutes proved decisive, after an opening period that was evenly matched. The striking aspect after they extended their advantage was how comfortable the closing stages of the game was for the Tynecastle team. The Greek winger doubled the lead, drifting inside before firing a powerful effort past the stationary the goalkeeper. More joy followed in the stands, Dane Murray upending Cláudio Braga for a spot-kick that the captain slotted home. The Celtic manager cut such a disconsolate figure; his problems are mounting.

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

The Visitors' Fightback

Celtic had actually recovered well from an early setback. Dane Murray, who struggled throughout, scored an own goal due to panic when trying to deal with a Shankland cross. Celtic edged their way back into the game, skipper McGregor, turning home a Tierney pass for 1-1.

Hearts' Defensive Resilience

The keeper Alexander Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, kept out an Arne Engels shot which touched Magnússon. Halkett blocked a Shin Yamada attempt in the dying moments. The hosts faced little else as the minutes passed. “We remain resolute” has become the favoured chant at Tynecastle. It is becoming increasingly difficult the noise.

• Full report coming soon.