The Tynecastle side Extend Eight Points Clear at the Summit After Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Sees Off The Glasgow Giants

History wasn't made at Tynecastle, as it's far too early for such landmarks. This game highlighted is that Hearts possess a real serious opportunity of ending Scottish football's four decade-long stranglehold. They now lead by eight points for the maroon side over the visitors, whom they decisively beat. The challenge is now for others.

Decisive Period in the Latter Period

Three second-half minutes were key, once the initial exchanges that was fiercely fought. The striking aspect after they extended their advantage was how comfortable the rest of the game was for the hosts. The Greek winger scored Hearts’ second, moving infield before firing a powerful effort past the static the Celtic keeper. Delight increased in the stands, Dane Murray bringing down Cláudio Braga for a spot-kick that Lawrence Shankland tucked away. Rodgers looked dejected; his problems are mounting.

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

The Visitors' Fightback

Celtic had actually recovered well from the hosts' quick opening. Dane Murray, who endured a torrid afternoon, conceded an own goal due to confusion when trying to deal with a ball into the box. Celtic edged their way back into the game, the captain Callum McGregor, scoring a Kieran Tierney pass for level terms.

Stubborn Defence

The shot-stopper Alexander Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Nygren in the first half, parried an Engels shot which flicked off Magnússon. Craig Halkett stopped a Shin Yamada attempt in the dying moments. The hosts faced little else as the minutes passed. “We stand firm” has become the popular anthem at the ground. It is becoming increasingly difficult the buzz.

• Complete analysis to follow.