The Tynecastle side Move 8 Points Clear Clear at the Summit After Lawrence Shankland's Spot-Kick Sees Off The Hoops

We did not witness at Tynecastle, since it's far too early for such landmarks. What this match did emphasise is that the Edinburgh club are at least in with strong chance of ending Scottish football's 40-year title duopoly. That advantage stands at eight points for Hearts over the visitors, whom they easily dispatched. Try to chase them down.

Decisive Period in the After the Break

A crucial three-minute spell made the difference, once the initial exchanges that was contested closely. It was remarkable after they extended their advantage was how comfortable the rest of the game was for the Tynecastle team. The Greek winger doubled the lead, drifting inside before firing a powerful effort past the stationary Kasper Schmeichel. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Murray bringing down the Hearts player for a spot-kick that Lawrence Shankland tucked away. Brendan Rodgers looked dejected; challenges abound for him.

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

Hoops' Reaction

Celtic bounced back from an early setback. Dane Murray, who endured a torrid afternoon, scored an own goal due to panic when trying to remove a Shankland cross. They gradually fought back into the game, the captain Callum McGregor, scoring a Kieran Tierney pull-back for level terms.

Solid Backline

The Hearts goalkeeper Alexander Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Nygren in the first half, blocked an Arne Engels shot which deflected off Magnússon. Craig Halkett thwarted a Yamada attempt in added time. The hosts faced little else as the game concluded. “We remain resolute” has become the favoured chant at the ground. It's hard to ignore the buzz.

  • Complete analysis to follow.
Audrey Osborne
Audrey Osborne

A London-based cultural critic and writer with a passion for contemporary arts and urban lifestyle trends.