Hearts Push 8 Points Clear Clear at Top Following Lawrence Shankland's Spot-Kick Defeats The Glasgow Giants

A historic moment didn't occur at their home ground, as it's far too early for such milestones. This game highlighted is that the Edinburgh club possess a real serious opportunity of ending Scottish football's four decade-long stranglehold. They now lead by eight points for Hearts over their rivals, whom they decisively beat. Catch them if you can.

Decisive Period in the After the Break

Three second-half minutes were key, once the initial exchanges that was evenly matched. The striking aspect after they took a 3-1 lead was how comfortable the closing stages of the game was for the home side. Alexandros Kyziridis scored Hearts’ second, cutting in from the left before firing a powerful effort past the static the goalkeeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, the Celtic defender bringing down Cláudio Braga for a spot-kick that Shankland converted. The Celtic manager looked dejected; challenges abound for him.

Supporters began celebrating after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against Celtic.

Hoops' Reaction

Celtic had actually recovered well from an early setback. The defender, who struggled throughout, scored an own goal due to haste when trying to remove a Shankland cross. The Hoops worked their way into the game, leader Callum McGregor, finishing a Tierney pass for level terms.

Stubborn Defence

The shot-stopper Schwolow, who had denied from Nygren in the first half, kept out an Engels shot which deflected off Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett blocked a Yamada attempt in added time. They comfortably saw out the game as the minutes passed. “We stand firm” has become the favoured chant at the stadium. It's hard to ignore the excitement.

• Full report coming soon.