Hearts Extend 8 Points Clear in Front at the Pinnacle After Lawrence Shankland's Spot-Kick Defeats The Hoops

A historic moment didn't occur at Tynecastle Park, with it being far too early for such milestones. The encounter underlined is that Hearts possess a real serious opportunity of ending Scottish football's 40-year dominance by two. They now lead by eight points for the maroon side over their rivals, whom they decisively beat. Try to chase them down.

Key Moments in the After the Break

A brief but pivotal phase were key, following a tight first half that was fiercely fought. It was remarkable after they took a 3-1 lead was how comfortable the rest of the game was for the hosts. The Greek winger doubled the lead, moving infield before firing a powerful effort past the static the Celtic keeper. Delight increased in the stands, Dane Murray upending Braga for a penalty that Lawrence Shankland slotted home. Brendan Rodgers appeared frustrated; his problems are mounting.

The crowd erupted after Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against the opposition.

Hoops' Reaction

Celtic had actually recovered well from the hosts' quick opening. Murray, who endured a torrid afternoon, turned the ball into his own net due to confusion when trying to deal with a ball into the box. Celtic edged their way back into the game, skipper McGregor, scoring a Tierney pull-back for 1-1.

Solid Backline

The Hearts goalkeeper Alexander Schwolow, who had denied from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, kept out an Arne Engels shot which touched Magnússon. Craig Halkett stopped a Yamada attempt in added time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the clock ticked down. “We remain resolute” has become the popular anthem at the ground. One cannot overlook the noise.

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