🔗 Share this article Hearts Push Eight Points Clear at the Summit Following Shankland's Penalty Defeats Celtic A historic moment didn't occur at their home ground, with it being far too early for such milestones. The encounter underlined is that the Edinburgh club possess a real strong chance of disrupting Scottish football's four decade-long title duopoly. Make that an eight-point lead for the maroon side over their rivals, whom they easily dispatched. Try to chase them down. Key Moments in the Latter Period A crucial three-minute spell made the difference, following a tight first half that was evenly matched. What was so notable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how comfortable the rest of the game was for the hosts. Kyziridis scored Hearts’ second, moving infield before blasting a strike past the static the goalkeeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Murray bringing down Braga for a spot-kick that Shankland tucked away. Brendan Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; challenges abound for him. Fans start to rejoice after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against the opposition. Celtic's Response Celtic bounced back from the hosts' quick opening. The defender, who struggled throughout, scored an own goal due to panic when trying to clear a Shankland cross. The Hoops worked their way into the game, leader Callum McGregor, turning home a Tierney pass for level terms. Solid Backline The Hearts goalkeeper Alexander Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Nygren in the first half, parried an Engels shot which deflected off Tómas Magnússon. Halkett stopped a Yamada attempt in stoppage time. They comfortably saw out the game as the clock ticked down. “We stand firm” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the ground. One cannot overlook the buzz. Detailed coverage to follow.