The Tynecastle side Extend Eight Points Ahead Clear at the Pinnacle After Shankland's Spot-Kick Sees Off The Glasgow Giants

We did not witness at their home ground, since it's far too early for such achievements. What this match did emphasise is that the Edinburgh club are at least in with serious opportunity of breaking Scottish football's four decade-long title duopoly. They now lead by eight points for the maroon side over the visitors, whom they comfortably swatted aside. Catch them if you can.

Key Moments 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 comfortable the closing stages of the game was for the hosts. Alexandros Kyziridis scored Hearts’ second, moving infield before thumping a right-footed shot past the motionless the Celtic keeper. More joy followed in the stands, the Celtic defender fouling Cláudio Braga for a foul that Lawrence Shankland slotted home. The Celtic manager cut such a disconsolate figure; he hardly has his troubles to seek.

Supporters began celebrating after Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against Celtic.

The Visitors' Fightback

Celtic had actually recovered well from the hosts' quick opening. Dane Murray, who had a difficult day, scored an own goal due to haste when trying to clear a ball into the box. Celtic edged their way back into the game, the captain McGregor, finishing a Tierney pull-back for the equaliser.

Solid Backline

The shot-stopper Schwolow, who had denied from Nygren in the first half, blocked an Arne Engels shot which flicked off Magnússon. Craig Halkett blocked a Shin Yamada attempt in the dying moments. The hosts faced little else as the minutes passed. “We shall not be moved” has become the favoured chant at Tynecastle. It's hard to ignore the excitement.

• Complete analysis to follow.