The Tynecastle side Push 8 Points Ahead Clear at Top After Lawrence Shankland's Spot-Kick Defeats The Glasgow Giants

We did not witness at Tynecastle, with it being far too early for such achievements. This game highlighted is that Heart of Midlothian have a genuine strong chance of ending Scottish football's long-standing stranglehold. That advantage stands at eight points for the team over the visitors, whom they comfortably swatted aside. Catch them if you can.

Turning Point in the Latter Period

A crucial three-minute spell made the difference, after an opening period that was fiercely fought. What was so notable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how stress-free the closing stages of the game was for the hosts. The Greek winger scored Hearts’ second, moving infield before blasting a strike past the motionless Kasper Schmeichel. More joy followed in the stands, Dane Murray fouling Cláudio Braga for a foul that the captain converted. Brendan Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; challenges abound for him.

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

Celtic's Response

Celtic bounced back from the hosts' quick opening. Murray, who endured a torrid afternoon, conceded an own goal due to haste when trying to clear a Shankland cross. Celtic edged their way back into the game, leader McGregor, finishing a Kieran Tierney cutback for 1-1.

Hearts' Defensive Resilience

The Hearts goalkeeper Alexander Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, blocked an Arne Engels shot which deflected off Magnússon. Craig Halkett blocked a Shin Yamada attempt in added time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the clock ticked down. “We stand firm” has become the popular anthem at the ground. It is becoming increasingly difficult the noise.

• Full report to follow.