The Tynecastle side Extend Eight Points Clear at Top Following Shankland's Spot-Kick Sees Off Celtic
A historic moment didn't occur at their home ground, since it's far too early for such landmarks. The encounter underlined is that Heart of Midlothian possess a real strong chance of breaking Scottish football's four decade-long 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 Second Half
A brief but pivotal phase proved decisive, once the initial exchanges that was contested closely. What was so notable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how untroubled the rest of the game was for the hosts. The Greek winger doubled the lead, cutting in from the left before thumping a right-footed shot past the static the goalkeeper. More joy followed in the stands, the Celtic defender upending the Hearts player for a foul that the captain converted. Brendan Rodgers appeared frustrated; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
Supporters began celebrating after Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against Celtic.
Celtic's Response
The away side responded positively from an early setback. Murray, who had a difficult day, turned the ball into his own net due to panic when trying to remove a delivery from Shankland. They gradually fought back into the game, skipper Callum McGregor, finishing a Tierney pull-back for 1-1.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The keeper Schwolow, who had denied from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, kept out an Engels shot which flicked off Tómas Magnússon. Halkett thwarted a Shin Yamada attempt in stoppage time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the clock ticked down. “We stand firm” has become the favoured chant at the ground. One cannot overlook the excitement.
- Detailed coverage coming soon.
