The Tynecastle side Extend 8 Points Clear in Front at the Pinnacle Following Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Kick Sees Off Celtic

A historic moment didn't occur at Tynecastle Park, with it being far too early for such landmarks. This game highlighted is that Heart of Midlothian are at least in with strong chance of breaking Scottish football's long-standing dominance by two. They now lead by eight points for the maroon side over the visitors, whom they comfortably swatted aside. The challenge is now for others.

Decisive Period in the Second Half

A brief but pivotal phase made the difference, after an opening period that was evenly matched. The striking aspect after they took a 3-1 lead was how comfortable the remainder of the game was for the hosts. Kyziridis netted the second goal, moving infield before thumping a right-footed shot past the motionless the goalkeeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Dane Murray upending Braga for a spot-kick that Shankland converted. Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; challenges abound for him.

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

Hoops' Reaction

Celtic had actually recovered well from the hosts' quick opening. Murray, who struggled throughout, turned the ball into his own net due to haste when trying to clear a ball into the box. The Hoops worked their way into the game, skipper McGregor, finishing a Kieran Tierney cutback for level terms.

Solid Backline

The shot-stopper Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Nygren in the first half, blocked an Arne Engels shot which flicked off Magnússon. Craig Halkett stopped a Yamada attempt in stoppage time. The hosts faced little else as the clock ticked down. “We stand firm” has become the popular anthem at the stadium. One cannot overlook the buzz.

• Full report will be available.