The Tynecastle side Move 8 Points Clear Ahead at Top After Shankland's Spot-Kick Overcomes The Glasgow Giants

We did not witness at Tynecastle, as it's far too early for such achievements. What this match did emphasise is that the Edinburgh club are at least in with serious opportunity of ending Scottish football's long-standing title duopoly. Make that an eight-point lead for the maroon side over the visitors, whom they comfortably swatted aside. Try to chase them down.

Key Moments in the After the Break

A brief but pivotal phase were key, once the initial exchanges that was fiercely fought. The striking aspect after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how comfortable the remainder of the game was for the Tynecastle team. The Greek winger doubled the lead, moving infield before firing a powerful effort past the stationary the goalkeeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Murray upending Braga for a spot-kick that the captain converted. Rodgers appeared frustrated; challenges abound for him.

The crowd erupted after Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against the opposition.

Hoops' Reaction

Celtic had actually recovered well from the hosts' quick opening. Dane Murray, who struggled throughout, conceded an own goal due to panic when trying to clear a ball into the box. Celtic edged their way back into the game, skipper Callum McGregor, finishing a Kieran Tierney pass for the equaliser.

Stubborn Defence

The keeper Alexander Schwolow, who had denied from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, blocked an Engels shot which touched Magnússon. Halkett thwarted a Shin Yamada attempt in the dying moments. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the minutes passed. “We shall not be moved” has become the favoured chant at Tynecastle. It's hard to ignore the noise.

• Full report to follow.