The Tynecastle side Extend Eight Points Ahead in Front at the Summit Following Shankland's Penalty Kick Overcomes The Glasgow Giants

A historic moment didn't occur at Tynecastle, since it's far too early for such achievements. What this match did emphasise is that Hearts possess a real serious opportunity of disrupting Scottish football's four decade-long dominance by two. Make that an eight-point lead for Hearts over the visitors, whom they decisively beat. The challenge is now for others.

Decisive Period in the After the Break

Three second-half minutes were key, after an opening period that was evenly matched. What was so notable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how comfortable the rest of the game was for the Tynecastle team. Alexandros Kyziridis netted the second goal, moving infield before blasting a strike past the motionless the Celtic keeper. Delight increased in the stands, the Celtic defender upending Braga for a penalty that Lawrence Shankland converted. Brendan Rodgers looked dejected; he hardly has his troubles to seek.

The crowd erupted after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against Celtic.

Celtic's Response

Celtic bounced back from an early setback. Murray, who struggled throughout, scored an own goal due to confusion when trying to remove a ball into the box. They gradually fought back into the game, leader Callum McGregor, finishing a Tierney pass for 1-1.

Solid Backline

The keeper Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, blocked an Engels shot which deflected off Magnússon. Halkett thwarted a Yamada attempt in added time. The hosts faced little else as the game concluded. “We stand firm” has become the popular anthem at Tynecastle. It's hard to ignore the excitement.

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Sean Jones
Sean Jones

Eleanor Vance is a seasoned journalist specializing in UK political reporting and international affairs, with over a decade of experience in media.