🔗 Share this article The Jambos Extend Eight Points Clear Clear at Top Following Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Kick Overcomes The Hoops We did not witness at Tynecastle, as it's far too early for such achievements. The encounter underlined is that Heart of Midlothian possess a real strong chance of breaking Scottish football's 40-year title duopoly. Make that an eight-point lead for the team over Celtic, whom they easily dispatched. Try to chase them down. Turning Point in the Second Half A crucial three-minute spell proved decisive, after an opening period that was contested closely. It was remarkable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front 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 motionless the Celtic keeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Murray fouling Braga for a spot-kick that Shankland tucked away. Rodgers appeared frustrated; challenges abound for him. The crowd erupted after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against Celtic. Hoops' Reaction The away side responded positively from the hosts' quick opening. The defender, who endured a torrid afternoon, conceded an own goal due to haste when trying to deal with a Shankland cross. The Hoops worked their way into the game, skipper Callum McGregor, turning home a Tierney pass for 1-1. Solid Backline The keeper Schwolow, who had denied from Nygren in the first half, kept out an Engels shot which touched Tómas Magnússon. Halkett blocked a Shin Yamada attempt in added time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the game concluded. “We stand firm” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at Tynecastle. One cannot overlook the noise. Detailed coverage will be available.