The Jambos Extend 8 Points Ahead at Top Following Shankland's Penalty Kick Defeats Celtic

A historic moment didn't occur at Tynecastle Park, as it's far too early for such achievements. The encounter underlined is that the Edinburgh club possess a real serious opportunity of ending Scottish football's four decade-long dominance by two. Make that an eight-point lead for the maroon side over the visitors, whom they comfortably swatted aside. Try to chase them down.

Turning Point in the After the Break

A brief but pivotal phase were key, after an opening period that was evenly matched. The striking aspect after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how untroubled the closing stages of the game was for the hosts. The Greek winger doubled the lead, moving infield before thumping a right-footed shot past the motionless the goalkeeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, the Celtic defender bringing down the Hearts player for a foul that Lawrence Shankland converted. Rodgers looked dejected; his problems are mounting.

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

Hoops' Reaction

The away side responded positively from an early setback. The defender, who endured a torrid afternoon, conceded an own goal due to haste when trying to deal with a ball into the box. They gradually fought back into the game, leader McGregor, finishing a Kieran Tierney cutback for level terms.

Solid Backline

The shot-stopper Alexander Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Nygren in the first half, kept out an Arne Engels shot which deflected off Tómas Magnússon. Halkett blocked a Shin Yamada attempt in stoppage time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the game concluded. “We remain resolute” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at Tynecastle. It is becoming increasingly difficult the noise.

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