The Tynecastle side Push Eight Points Ahead in Front at the Summit Following Shankland's Penalty Kick Sees Off The Hoops
History wasn't made at Tynecastle, with it being far too early for such landmarks. The encounter underlined is that Hearts possess a real strong chance of disrupting Scottish football's four decade-long stranglehold. Make that an eight-point lead for the maroon side over the visitors, whom they easily dispatched. Try to chase them down.
Turning Point in the Latter Period
A crucial three-minute spell made the difference, once the initial exchanges that was evenly matched. The striking aspect after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how comfortable the remainder of the game was for the hosts. Alexandros Kyziridis netted the second goal, moving infield before firing a powerful effort past the static the Celtic keeper. Delight increased in the stands, Dane Murray upending the Hearts player for a spot-kick that Shankland slotted home. Rodgers looked dejected; challenges abound for him.
Supporters began celebrating after Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against Celtic.
Celtic's Response
Celtic had actually recovered well from Hearts’ rapid start. The defender, who struggled throughout, scored an own goal due to confusion when trying to deal with a Shankland cross. They gradually fought back into the game, skipper Callum McGregor, turning home a Kieran Tierney cutback for the equaliser.
Stubborn Defence
The shot-stopper Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Nygren in the first half, parried an Engels shot which touched Magnússon. Halkett thwarted a Yamada attempt in added time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the clock ticked down. “We stand firm” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the stadium. It is becoming increasingly difficult the buzz.
- Full report coming soon.