Hearts Push 8 Points Ahead in Front at the Summit Following Shankland's Spot-Kick Sees Off The Hoops
A historic moment didn't occur at Tynecastle, with it being far too early for such landmarks. This game highlighted is that Hearts are at least in with credible shot of ending Scottish football's four decade-long dominance by two. They now lead by eight points for Hearts over Celtic, whom they comfortably swatted aside. Catch them if you can.
Turning Point in the Latter Period
Three second-half minutes were key, following a tight first half that was evenly matched. The striking aspect after they took a 3-1 lead was how untroubled the remainder of the game was for the Tynecastle team. The Greek winger netted the second goal, drifting inside before thumping a right-footed shot past the stationary the goalkeeper. More joy followed in the stands, Murray fouling Cláudio Braga for a penalty that Shankland converted. Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; challenges abound for him.
The crowd erupted after Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against Celtic.
The Visitors' Fightback
Celtic bounced back from the hosts' quick opening. Murray, who struggled throughout, conceded an own goal due to panic when trying to clear a ball into the box. Celtic edged their way back into the game, the captain Callum McGregor, scoring a Tierney cutback for 1-1.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The shot-stopper Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Nygren in the first half, blocked an Arne Engels shot which flicked off Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett thwarted a Yamada attempt in stoppage time. The hosts faced little else as the minutes passed. “We shall not be moved” has become the popular anthem at Tynecastle. One cannot overlook the buzz.
- Full report to follow.