Hearts Push Eight Points Clear Ahead at Top After Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Overcomes The Glasgow Giants

History wasn't made at their home ground, as it's far too early for such milestones. The encounter underlined is that the Edinburgh club possess a real strong chance of disrupting Scottish football's four decade-long title duopoly. Make that an eight-point lead for the team over their rivals, whom they decisively beat. Try to chase them down.

Turning Point in the Second Half

A crucial three-minute spell proved decisive, after an opening period that was fiercely fought. The striking aspect after they took a 3-1 lead was how comfortable the closing stages of the game was for the hosts. The Greek winger scored Hearts’ second, drifting inside before firing a powerful effort past the stationary the goalkeeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Murray fouling Cláudio Braga for a spot-kick that Lawrence Shankland slotted home. Brendan Rodgers 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 Hearts’ rapid start. Murray, who struggled throughout, conceded an own goal due to panic when trying to clear a ball into the box. The Hoops worked their way into the game, skipper McGregor, scoring a Tierney pass for the equaliser.

Stubborn Defence

The Hearts goalkeeper Schwolow, who had denied from Nygren in the first half, kept out an Arne Engels shot which flicked off Tómas Magnússon. Halkett thwarted a Yamada attempt in stoppage time. The hosts faced little else as the game concluded. “We stand firm” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at Tynecastle. One cannot overlook the buzz.

• Detailed coverage to follow.