🔗 Share this article Hearts Push Eight Points Clear Clear at the Pinnacle After Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Kick Sees Off The Hoops We did not witness at their home ground, with it being far too early for such milestones. The encounter underlined is that Hearts are at least in with credible shot of disrupting Scottish football's four decade-long stranglehold. That advantage stands at eight points for Hearts over Celtic, whom they decisively beat. The challenge is now for others. Key Moments in the Latter Period A brief but pivotal phase were key, after an opening period that was contested closely. The striking aspect after they took a 3-1 lead was how untroubled the remainder of the game was for the Tynecastle team. The Greek winger doubled the lead, cutting in from the left before firing a powerful effort past the static the Celtic keeper. Delight increased in the stands, the Celtic defender upending Braga for a penalty that Lawrence Shankland converted. Brendan Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; challenges abound for him. Supporters began celebrating after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against the opposition. Hoops' Reaction Celtic had actually recovered well from Hearts’ rapid start. The defender, who had a difficult day, conceded an own goal due to panic when trying to deal with a ball into the box. Celtic edged their way back into the game, leader Callum McGregor, scoring a Tierney pass for level terms. Hearts' Defensive Resilience The Hearts goalkeeper Alexander Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, blocked an Engels shot which flicked off Magnússon. Halkett stopped a Shin Yamada attempt in added time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the game concluded. “We remain resolute” has become the popular anthem at Tynecastle. One cannot overlook the excitement. Full report to follow.