The Tynecastle side Extend Eight Points Clear in Front at Top Following Shankland's Penalty Sees Off The Hoops

We did not witness at Tynecastle, with it being far too early for such milestones. This game highlighted is that the Edinburgh club are at least in with credible shot of breaking Scottish football's four decade-long title duopoly. They now lead by eight points for Hearts over their rivals, whom they decisively beat. Try to chase them down.

Decisive Period in the Latter Period

Three second-half minutes made the difference, following a tight first half that was contested closely. The striking aspect after they took a 3-1 lead was how stress-free the closing stages of the game was for the home side. Alexandros Kyziridis doubled the lead, cutting in from the left before firing a powerful effort past the static Kasper Schmeichel. More joy followed in the stands, the Celtic defender upending Braga for a spot-kick that Shankland converted. The Celtic manager appeared frustrated; challenges abound for him.

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

The Visitors' Fightback

The away side responded positively from the hosts' quick opening. Murray, who struggled throughout, turned the ball into his own net due to panic when trying to remove a Shankland cross. The Hoops worked their way into the game, the captain Callum McGregor, scoring a Kieran Tierney cutback for 1-1.

Stubborn Defence

The Hearts goalkeeper Alexander Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Nygren in the first half, parried an Arne Engels shot which deflected off Magnússon. Halkett blocked a Shin Yamada attempt in added time. The hosts faced little else as the minutes passed. “We remain resolute” has become the favoured chant at the stadium. It is becoming increasingly difficult the buzz.

• Full report to follow.