The Jambos Push Eight Points Ahead Clear at the Pinnacle Following Shankland's Penalty Kick Sees Off The Hoops

History wasn't made at Tynecastle Park, as it's far too early for such achievements. What this match did emphasise is that Hearts are at least in with credible shot of breaking Scottish football's long-standing stranglehold. Make that an eight-point lead for the team over their rivals, whom they easily dispatched. The challenge is now for others.

Key Moments in the Second Half

A crucial three-minute spell were key, once the initial exchanges that was contested closely. It was remarkable after they took a 3-1 lead was how stress-free the rest of the game was for the Tynecastle team. Alexandros Kyziridis netted the second goal, moving infield before firing a powerful effort past the stationary Kasper Schmeichel. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Dane Murray upending the Hearts player for a foul that the captain slotted home. Rodgers appeared frustrated; challenges abound for him.

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

The Visitors' Fightback

Celtic bounced back from Hearts’ rapid start. Dane Murray, who struggled throughout, scored an own goal due to panic when trying to remove a ball into the box. The Hoops worked their way into the game, leader Callum McGregor, turning home a Kieran Tierney pull-back for 1-1.

Solid Backline

The shot-stopper Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, blocked an Engels shot which touched Tómas Magnússon. Halkett thwarted a Yamada attempt in stoppage time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the game concluded. “We stand firm” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the ground. One cannot overlook the buzz.

• Complete analysis coming soon.