Hearts Move Eight Points Ahead Clear at the Pinnacle Following Lawrence Shankland's Spot-Kick Sees Off The Glasgow Giants

We did not witness at Tynecastle Park, since it's far too early for such landmarks. What this match did emphasise is that the Edinburgh club are at least in with strong chance of ending Scottish football's four decade-long title duopoly. That advantage stands at eight points for Hearts over the visitors, whom they comfortably swatted aside. The challenge is now for others.

Decisive Period in the Latter Period

A brief but pivotal phase were key, following a tight first half that was evenly matched. The striking aspect after they took a 3-1 lead was how comfortable the rest of the game was for the hosts. Kyziridis netted the second goal, cutting in from the left before thumping a right-footed shot past the motionless Kasper Schmeichel. Delight increased in the stands, Dane Murray bringing down Cláudio Braga for a spot-kick that the captain tucked away. The Celtic manager appeared frustrated; he hardly has his troubles to seek.

Fans start to rejoice after Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against the opposition.

The Visitors' Fightback

The away side responded positively from an early setback. The defender, who had a difficult day, scored an own goal due to panic when trying to deal with a delivery from Shankland. They gradually fought back into the game, the captain Callum McGregor, scoring a Tierney pass for the equaliser.

Hearts' Defensive Resilience

The Hearts goalkeeper Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, parried an Engels shot which deflected off Tómas Magnússon. Halkett thwarted a Shin Yamada attempt in added time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the game concluded. “We remain resolute” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the ground. One cannot overlook the buzz.

• Detailed coverage to follow.