🔗 Share this article Hearts Move 8 Points Clear in Front at the Summit Following Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Kick Overcomes The Hoops A historic moment didn't occur at their home ground, since it's far too early for such landmarks. This game highlighted is that Hearts possess a real strong chance of ending Scottish football's 40-year title duopoly. That advantage stands at eight points for the team over Celtic, whom they easily dispatched. The challenge is now for others. Decisive Period in the Latter Period Three second-half minutes were key, following a tight first half that was contested closely. What was so notable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how stress-free the closing stages of the game was for the home side. The Greek winger doubled the lead, moving infield before thumping a right-footed shot past the static the Celtic keeper. More joy followed in the stands, the Celtic defender upending Cláudio Braga for a penalty that the captain converted. Rodgers looked dejected; his problems are mounting. Supporters began celebrating after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against the opposition. Celtic's Response Celtic had actually recovered well from Hearts’ rapid start. Dane Murray, who struggled throughout, turned the ball into his own net due to panic when trying to deal with a Shankland cross. They gradually fought back into the game, the captain Callum McGregor, scoring a Tierney pull-back for the equaliser. Stubborn Defence The shot-stopper Alexander Schwolow, who had denied from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, parried an Engels shot which flicked off Magnússon. Halkett stopped a Shin Yamada attempt in added time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the clock ticked down. “We remain resolute” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the stadium. One cannot overlook the noise. Full report to follow.