The Tynecastle side Push Eight Points Clear Ahead at the Summit Following Shankland's Penalty Kick Sees Off Celtic
A historic moment didn't occur at Tynecastle, since it's far too early for such milestones. This game highlighted is that Heart of Midlothian possess a real strong chance of breaking Scottish football's 40-year stranglehold. That advantage stands at eight points for the team over the visitors, whom they comfortably swatted aside. The challenge is now for others.
Key Moments in the Second Half
A brief but pivotal phase made the difference, following a tight first half that was contested closely. What was so notable 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, moving infield before firing a powerful effort past the stationary the Celtic keeper. More joy followed in the stands, Murray fouling Cláudio Braga for a penalty that Shankland tucked away. Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
Fans start to rejoice after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against Celtic.
Celtic's Response
Celtic had actually recovered well from an early setback. Dane Murray, who had a difficult day, turned the ball into his own net due to haste when trying to remove a delivery from Shankland. They gradually fought back into the game, leader Callum McGregor, finishing a Tierney pass for the equaliser.
Solid Backline
The shot-stopper Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Nygren in the first half, kept out an Arne Engels shot which flicked off Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett stopped a Yamada attempt in the dying moments. They comfortably saw out the game as the game concluded. “We remain resolute” has become the favoured chant at the ground. One cannot overlook the buzz.
- Complete analysis to follow.
