Hearts Push Eight Points in Front at the Pinnacle Following Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Kick Defeats The Glasgow Giants

A historic moment didn't occur at Tynecastle Park, with it being far too early for such achievements. What this match did emphasise is that the Edinburgh club possess a real credible shot of disrupting Scottish football's long-standing title duopoly. Make that an eight-point lead for the maroon side over Celtic, whom they comfortably swatted aside. The challenge is now for others.

Turning Point in the Latter Period

Three second-half minutes were key, once the initial exchanges that was contested closely. It was remarkable after they extended their advantage was how comfortable the remainder of the game was for the home side. Alexandros Kyziridis doubled the lead, moving infield before firing a powerful effort past the static Kasper Schmeichel. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Dane Murray bringing down the Hearts player for a penalty that the captain tucked away. Brendan Rodgers looked dejected; his problems are mounting.

Supporters began celebrating after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against the opposition.

The Visitors' Fightback

Celtic bounced back from Hearts’ rapid start. Dane Murray, who struggled throughout, turned the ball into his own net due to haste when trying to remove a delivery from Shankland. The Hoops worked their way into the game, leader Callum McGregor, finishing a Kieran Tierney pull-back for 1-1.

Solid Backline

The keeper Schwolow, who had denied from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, kept out an Engels shot which flicked off Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett blocked a Yamada attempt in stoppage time. The hosts faced little else as the game concluded. “We stand firm” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the stadium. It is becoming increasingly difficult the buzz.

• Full report to follow.