The Jambos Move Eight Points Clear at the Pinnacle After Shankland's Spot-Kick Sees Off The Hoops

History wasn't made at their home ground, as it's far too early for such milestones. The encounter underlined is that Heart of Midlothian are at least in with serious opportunity of breaking Scottish football's four decade-long dominance by two. That advantage stands at eight points for the team over their rivals, whom they decisively beat. The challenge is now for others.

Decisive Period in the Second Half

A crucial three-minute spell proved decisive, once the initial exchanges that was fiercely fought. It was remarkable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how untroubled the rest of the game was for the hosts. Kyziridis netted the second goal, drifting inside before blasting a strike past the motionless the Celtic keeper. Delight increased in the stands, Murray upending Cláudio Braga for a penalty that Lawrence Shankland converted. The Celtic manager looked dejected; challenges abound for him.

Supporters began celebrating after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against the opposition.

Hoops' Reaction

Celtic had actually recovered well from Hearts’ rapid start. Murray, who struggled throughout, turned the ball into his own net due to confusion when trying to deal with a delivery from Shankland. They gradually fought back into the game, the captain McGregor, turning home a Tierney cutback for the equaliser.

Stubborn Defence

The shot-stopper Alexander Schwolow, who had denied from Nygren in the first half, kept out an Engels shot which deflected off Magnússon. Craig Halkett thwarted a Yamada attempt in stoppage time. The hosts faced little else as the minutes passed. “We stand firm” has become the popular anthem at the stadium. It's hard to ignore the excitement.

• Complete analysis coming soon.