Hearts moved eight points clear of Celtic at the top of the Scottish Premiership with a powerful 3-1 victory at Tynecastle, sending a strong message about their title ambitions and deepening Celtic’s early-season troubles.
A fine goal from Alexandros Kyziridis and a Lawrence Shankland penalty sealed the win for Derek McInnes’ side, after an own goal by Dane Murray had given them an early lead.
Celtic captain Callum McGregor briefly levelled the score with a classy finish, but the champions could not recover as Hearts took control and handed Brendan Rodgers’ team a second straight league defeat — something that hasn’t happened since 2023.
Hearts take control at Tynecastle
The home side started full of confidence, unbeaten so far this season, and the atmosphere inside Tynecastle was electric. Celtic’s defence struggled early on, and the pressure told when Murray turned the ball into his own net after Claudio Braga’s header hit the post.
McGregor equalised soon after, finishing off a fine team move set up by Sebastian Tounekti and Tierney. But Celtic’s chances were limited, especially with several key forwards — including Kelechi Iheanacho and Daizen Maeda — out injured.
Hearts kept pushing, and Kyziridis fired home from the edge of the box to restore the lead. Moments later, Murray fouled Braga, and Shankland confidently scored from the penalty spot.
It could have been worse for Celtic, as Schmeichel denied substitute Ageu late on.
Hearts’ best title start in years
The result gives Hearts a commanding advantage at the top — their biggest since the 2005–06 season under George Burley, when they eventually finished second. McInnes, however, insists it’s too early for title talk as Hearts chase their first top-flight crown since 1960.
Celtic boss Rodgers admitted his side were below their best:
“It’s a really poor goal we gave away for their second. We knew the winger likes to come inside and shoot, but we didn’t react well.
It’s still early — only nine games in — and there are plenty of points to play for. But we need more consistency and quality in our play.”
Hearts’ dominant display, combined with Celtic’s shaky form, has made this season’s title race one of the most exciting in years — and for now, McInnes’ side are very much in control.