The Jambos Move 8 Points Clear at the Summit Following Shankland's Penalty Kick Overcomes Celtic
A historic moment didn't occur at Tynecastle, as it's far too early for such landmarks. The encounter underlined is that Hearts possess a real serious opportunity of ending Scottish football's 40-year dominance by two. Make that an eight-point lead for the maroon side over the visitors, whom they easily dispatched. The challenge is now for others.
Decisive Period in the Latter Period
Three second-half minutes were key, following a tight first half that was contested closely. The striking aspect after they took a 3-1 lead was how stress-free the remainder of the game was for the home side. Alexandros Kyziridis doubled the lead, drifting inside before thumping a right-footed shot past the stationary the Celtic keeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Murray fouling Cláudio Braga for a penalty that Shankland tucked away. Brendan Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
Fans start to rejoice after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against the opposition.
Celtic's Response
The away side responded positively from the hosts' quick opening. Murray, who struggled throughout, scored an own goal due to confusion when trying to remove a Shankland cross. The Hoops worked their way into the game, the captain Callum McGregor, finishing a Tierney pull-back for 1-1.
Stubborn Defence
The keeper Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Nygren in the first half, blocked an Engels shot which touched Magnússon. Halkett blocked a Shin Yamada attempt in added time. The hosts faced little else as the game concluded. “We stand firm” has become the favoured chant at the ground. One cannot overlook the noise.
- Detailed coverage coming soon.