🔗 Share this article Hearts Push Eight Points Clear in Front at the Pinnacle Following Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Sees Off The Glasgow Giants We did not witness at Tynecastle Park, as it's far too early for such landmarks. What this match did emphasise is that Hearts have a genuine credible shot of ending Scottish football's 40-year title duopoly. They now lead by eight points for the team over Celtic, whom they decisively beat. Catch them if you can. Turning Point in the Latter Period A brief but pivotal phase proved decisive, following a tight first half that was evenly matched. It was remarkable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how stress-free the rest of the game was for the hosts. Alexandros Kyziridis doubled the lead, moving infield before firing a powerful effort past the static the Celtic keeper. Delight increased in the stands, Murray upending Cláudio Braga for a foul that Shankland converted. Brendan Rodgers appeared frustrated; challenges abound for him. The crowd erupted after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against the opposition. The Visitors' Fightback The away side responded positively from an early setback. Murray, who struggled throughout, scored an own goal due to panic when trying to remove a Shankland cross. Celtic edged their way back into the game, skipper Callum McGregor, turning home a Kieran Tierney cutback for the equaliser. Solid Backline The shot-stopper Alexander Schwolow, who had denied from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, blocked an Arne Engels shot which deflected off Magnússon. Halkett stopped a Shin Yamada attempt in added time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the minutes passed. “We stand firm” has become the popular anthem at Tynecastle. One cannot overlook the excitement. Full report to follow.