🔗 Share this article The Tynecastle side Extend 8 Points Clear at Top After Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Overcomes Celtic We did not witness at their home ground, since it's far too early for such achievements. The encounter underlined is that the Edinburgh club have a genuine credible shot of breaking Scottish football's four decade-long stranglehold. Make that an eight-point lead for Hearts over their rivals, whom they decisively beat. Try to chase them down. Turning Point in the Latter Period A crucial three-minute spell made the difference, after an opening period that was contested closely. What was so notable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how stress-free the closing stages of the game was for the hosts. Alexandros Kyziridis netted the second goal, moving infield before thumping a right-footed shot past the static the goalkeeper. Delight increased in the stands, Murray upending Braga for a penalty that Shankland converted. Brendan Rodgers looked dejected; he hardly has his troubles to seek. The crowd erupted after Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against Celtic. Hoops' Reaction Celtic had actually recovered well from the hosts' quick opening. The defender, who struggled throughout, scored an own goal due to confusion when trying to clear a ball into the box. Celtic edged their way back into the game, the captain Callum McGregor, finishing a Kieran Tierney pass for 1-1. Stubborn Defence The Hearts goalkeeper Schwolow, who had denied from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, blocked an Arne Engels shot which flicked off Tómas Magnússon. Halkett thwarted a Shin Yamada attempt in added time. The hosts faced little else as the clock ticked down. “We stand firm” has become the popular anthem at the stadium. It is becoming increasingly difficult the buzz. Detailed coverage coming soon.