🔗 Share this article Hearts Extend 8 Points Clear in Front at Top Following Lawrence Shankland's Spot-Kick Sees Off Celtic We did not witness at their home ground, as it's far too early for such milestones. The encounter underlined is that Heart of Midlothian are at least in with strong chance of disrupting Scottish football's long-standing stranglehold. Make that an eight-point lead for Hearts over the visitors, whom they decisively beat. Catch them if you can. Turning Point in the Second Half A brief but pivotal phase were key, following a tight first half that was contested closely. It was remarkable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how stress-free the rest of the game was for the hosts. Alexandros Kyziridis netted the second goal, cutting in from the left before thumping a right-footed shot past the static the Celtic keeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Murray fouling Braga for a foul that Shankland converted. Brendan Rodgers appeared frustrated; his problems are mounting. Fans start to rejoice after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against the opposition. Celtic's Response Celtic had actually recovered well from an early setback. The defender, who had a difficult day, conceded an own goal due to confusion when trying to clear a Shankland cross. Celtic edged their way back into the game, skipper McGregor, finishing a Tierney cutback for 1-1. Hearts' Defensive Resilience The shot-stopper Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Nygren in the first half, kept out an Arne Engels shot which touched Magnússon. Craig Halkett stopped a Yamada attempt in stoppage time. They comfortably saw out the game as the game concluded. “We stand firm” has become the favoured chant at the stadium. It is becoming increasingly difficult the noise. Detailed coverage coming soon.