The Jambos Extend 8 Points Clear Clear at Top After Shankland's Penalty Kick Overcomes Celtic

We did not witness at their home ground, as it's far too early for such milestones. The encounter underlined is that Hearts have a genuine credible shot of breaking Scottish football's four decade-long dominance by two. That advantage stands at eight points for the maroon side over their rivals, whom they easily dispatched. The challenge is now for others.

Key Moments in the After the Break

A brief but pivotal phase 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 closing stages of the game was for the home side. Kyziridis netted the second goal, drifting inside before thumping a right-footed shot past the stationary Kasper Schmeichel. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Dane Murray bringing down the Hearts player for a spot-kick that Shankland tucked away. Rodgers looked dejected; his problems are mounting.

The crowd erupted after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against Celtic.

Hoops' Reaction

Celtic had actually recovered well from an early setback. The defender, who endured a torrid afternoon, conceded an own goal due to confusion when trying to remove a delivery from Shankland. They gradually fought back into the game, the captain McGregor, scoring a Tierney pass for 1-1.

Stubborn Defence

The shot-stopper Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, parried an Arne Engels shot which deflected off Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett blocked a Shin Yamada attempt in stoppage time. The hosts faced little else as the clock ticked down. “We stand firm” has become the favoured chant at the ground. It's hard to ignore the noise.

• Full report coming soon.