Hearts Extend 8 Points in Front at the Pinnacle Following Shankland's Spot-Kick Sees Off The Hoops
History wasn't made at Tynecastle Park, since it's far too early for such milestones. What this match did emphasise is that Heart of Midlothian have a genuine strong chance of disrupting Scottish football's long-standing dominance by two. Make that an eight-point lead for the maroon side over their rivals, whom they comfortably swatted aside. The challenge is now for others.
Turning Point in the Second Half
A crucial three-minute spell proved decisive, after an opening period that was evenly matched. It was remarkable after they took a 3-1 lead was how stress-free the closing stages of the game was for the home side. The Greek winger scored Hearts’ second, drifting inside before firing a powerful effort past the motionless Kasper Schmeichel. More joy followed in the stands, Murray fouling Cláudio Braga for a foul that the captain tucked away. Rodgers looked dejected; his problems are mounting.
Supporters began celebrating after Alexandros 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 struggled throughout, scored an own goal due to panic when trying to clear a Shankland cross. Celtic edged their way back into the game, skipper Callum McGregor, finishing a Kieran Tierney pull-back for level terms.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The Hearts goalkeeper Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Nygren in the first half, kept out an Arne Engels shot which touched Tómas Magnússon. Halkett stopped a Shin Yamada attempt in added time. They comfortably saw out the game as the game concluded. “We shall not be moved” has become the popular anthem at the ground. One cannot overlook the excitement.
- Full report will be available.
