Hearts Push 8 Points Clear Clear at the Summit Following Shankland's Penalty Overcomes The Hoops
A historic moment didn't occur at their home ground, since it's far too early for such milestones. This game highlighted is that Hearts possess a real credible shot of breaking Scottish football's 40-year dominance by two. That advantage stands at eight points for Hearts over their rivals, whom they comfortably swatted aside. The challenge is now for others.
Turning Point in the Latter Period
A brief but pivotal phase made the difference, after an opening period that was evenly matched. It was remarkable after they took a 3-1 lead was how untroubled the rest of the game was for the Tynecastle team. Alexandros Kyziridis netted the second goal, moving infield before firing a powerful effort past the static the Celtic keeper. More joy followed in the stands, the Celtic defender upending the Hearts player for a penalty that Shankland slotted home. Brendan Rodgers appeared frustrated; challenges abound for him.
Fans start to rejoice after Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against the opposition.
Celtic's Response
Celtic had actually recovered well from the hosts' quick opening. Murray, who endured a torrid afternoon, turned the ball into his own net due to confusion when trying to remove a ball into the box. Celtic edged their way back into the game, leader Callum McGregor, scoring a Kieran Tierney pass for level terms.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The keeper Alexander Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Nygren in the first half, blocked an Engels shot which deflected off Magnússon. Halkett stopped a Yamada attempt in added time. They comfortably saw out the game as the clock ticked down. “We shall not be moved” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the stadium. One cannot overlook the excitement.
- Detailed coverage coming soon.
