The Jambos Extend Eight Points Clear in Front at the Pinnacle Following Shankland's Spot-Kick Defeats The Hoops

History wasn't made at Tynecastle Park, with it being far too early for such achievements. What this match did emphasise is that Heart of Midlothian have a genuine credible shot of ending Scottish football's 40-year stranglehold. Make that an eight-point lead for Hearts over the visitors, whom they easily dispatched. The challenge is now for others.

Turning Point in the Latter Period

A crucial three-minute spell proved decisive, following a tight first half that was contested closely. It was remarkable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how untroubled the remainder of the game was for the home side. The Greek winger scored Hearts’ second, cutting in from the left before thumping a right-footed shot past the motionless Kasper Schmeichel. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, the Celtic defender upending Braga for a penalty that Shankland slotted home. The Celtic manager cut such a disconsolate figure; challenges abound for him.

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

Celtic's Response

The away side responded positively from an early setback. Murray, who struggled throughout, turned the ball into his own net due to confusion when trying to clear a ball into the box. Celtic edged their way back into the game, leader McGregor, finishing a Tierney pass for level terms.

Hearts' Defensive Resilience

The keeper Alexander Schwolow, who had denied from Nygren in the first half, parried an Engels shot which touched Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett stopped a Shin Yamada attempt in the dying moments. The hosts faced little else as the clock ticked down. “We stand firm” has become the favoured chant at the ground. It is becoming increasingly difficult the noise.

• Full report coming soon.