🔗 Share this article The Tynecastle side Push Eight Points Clear in Front at Top After Shankland's Penalty Sees Off The Hoops We did not witness at their home ground, since it's far too early for such achievements. What this match did emphasise is that Hearts possess a real strong chance of ending Scottish football's four decade-long dominance by two. They now lead by eight points for the maroon side over their rivals, whom they decisively beat. The challenge is now for others. Turning Point in the Second Half A crucial three-minute spell were key, following a tight first half that was evenly matched. What was so notable after they took a 3-1 lead was how stress-free the remainder 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 static the Celtic keeper. More joy followed in the stands, Murray upending the Hearts player for a penalty that Shankland converted. Brendan Rodgers appeared frustrated; his problems are mounting. Supporters began celebrating after Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against the opposition. Hoops' Reaction Celtic had actually recovered well from an early setback. The defender, who endured a torrid afternoon, conceded an own goal due to panic when trying to clear a delivery from Shankland. They gradually fought back into the game, the captain McGregor, scoring a Tierney pull-back for 1-1. Stubborn Defence The shot-stopper Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, parried an Arne Engels shot which deflected off Tómas Magnússon. Halkett thwarted a Shin Yamada attempt in the dying moments. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the minutes passed. “We remain resolute” has become the favoured chant at the stadium. It is becoming increasingly difficult the noise. Full report coming soon.