The Jambos Push 8 Points Ahead in Front at the Pinnacle After Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Kick Defeats The Hoops

History wasn't made at their home ground, as it's far too early for such milestones. What this match did emphasise is that Heart of Midlothian have a genuine credible shot of ending Scottish football's long-standing title duopoly. Make that an eight-point lead for the team over Celtic, whom they easily dispatched. Catch them if you can.

Decisive Period in the Latter Period

Three second-half minutes were key, after an opening period that was evenly matched. What was so notable after they extended their advantage was how stress-free the remainder of the game was for the home side. Kyziridis doubled the lead, cutting in from the left before blasting a strike past the stationary Kasper Schmeichel. More joy followed in the stands, Murray upending Cláudio Braga for a spot-kick that the captain slotted home. Brendan Rodgers looked dejected; challenges abound for him.

Supporters began celebrating after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against the opposition.

The Visitors' Fightback

The away side responded positively from an early setback. The defender, who struggled throughout, scored an own goal due to confusion when trying to deal with a delivery from Shankland. They gradually fought back into the game, leader Callum McGregor, scoring a Kieran Tierney pull-back for the equaliser.

Stubborn Defence

The shot-stopper Alexander Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Nygren in the first half, kept out an Engels shot which flicked off Tómas Magnússon. Halkett thwarted a Shin Yamada attempt in added time. They comfortably saw out the game as the clock ticked down. “We shall not be moved” has become the popular anthem at Tynecastle. It is becoming increasingly difficult the excitement.