Hearts Extend 8 Points Ahead Clear at the Pinnacle Following Shankland's Penalty Kick Sees Off The Hoops

A historic moment didn't occur at Tynecastle Park, with it being far too early for such milestones. This game highlighted is that Hearts possess a real credible shot of disrupting Scottish football's four decade-long stranglehold. Make that an eight-point lead for the maroon side over the visitors, whom they easily dispatched. Try to chase them down.

Decisive Period in the Latter Period

A brief but pivotal phase proved decisive, after an opening period that was fiercely fought. It was remarkable after they took a 3-1 lead was how stress-free the closing stages of the game was for the hosts. Kyziridis doubled the lead, moving infield before blasting a strike past the motionless the goalkeeper. Delight increased in the stands, Murray bringing down the Hearts player for a foul that the captain slotted home. Brendan Rodgers looked dejected; his problems are mounting.

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

Celtic's Response

Celtic bounced back from Hearts’ rapid start. The defender, who had a difficult day, conceded an own goal due to confusion when trying to remove a ball into the box. The Hoops worked their way into the game, leader McGregor, turning home a Tierney cutback for the equaliser.

Stubborn Defence

The shot-stopper Alexander Schwolow, who had denied from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, blocked an Arne Engels shot which flicked off Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett blocked a Yamada attempt in the dying moments. They comfortably saw out the game as the clock ticked down. “We remain resolute” has become the popular anthem at the ground. One cannot overlook the buzz.