Hearts Move 8 Points Clear in Front at Top Following Shankland's Penalty Kick Sees Off The Glasgow Giants

History wasn't made at Tynecastle, with it being far too early for such landmarks. The encounter underlined is that Heart of Midlothian possess a real credible shot of disrupting Scottish football's 40-year stranglehold. Make that an eight-point lead for the maroon side over Celtic, whom they easily dispatched. Catch them if you can.

Decisive Period in the Latter Period

A crucial three-minute spell made the difference, once the initial exchanges that was fiercely fought. It was remarkable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how comfortable the rest of the game was for the hosts. The Greek winger scored Hearts’ second, cutting in from the left before thumping a right-footed shot past the motionless the goalkeeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Dane Murray bringing down Braga for a spot-kick that the captain tucked away. The Celtic manager looked dejected; challenges abound for him.

The crowd erupted after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against Celtic.

The Visitors' Fightback

The away side responded positively from Hearts’ rapid start. The defender, who had a difficult day, conceded an own goal due to haste when trying to clear a Shankland cross. The Hoops worked their way into the game, leader Callum McGregor, finishing a Tierney pull-back for level terms.

Hearts' Defensive Resilience

The shot-stopper Schwolow, who had denied from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, blocked an Engels shot which touched Tómas Magnússon. Halkett stopped a Yamada attempt in the dying moments. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the game concluded. “We shall not be moved” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at Tynecastle. It is becoming increasingly difficult the excitement.

• Detailed coverage coming soon.