Hearts Push 8 Points Clear Ahead at the Summit Following Shankland's Penalty Kick Sees Off The Hoops
A historic moment didn't occur at Tynecastle Park, as it's far too early for such landmarks. This game highlighted is that Hearts have a genuine strong chance of breaking Scottish football's four decade-long dominance by two. That advantage stands at eight points for Hearts over Celtic, whom they decisively beat. The challenge is now for others.
Key Moments in the Latter Period
A crucial three-minute spell made the difference, once the initial exchanges that was evenly matched. The striking aspect after they took a 3-1 lead was how comfortable the closing stages of the game was for the Tynecastle team. Alexandros Kyziridis netted the second goal, drifting inside before blasting a strike past the stationary the Celtic keeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Dane Murray bringing down the Hearts player for a penalty that Shankland slotted home. Brendan Rodgers looked dejected; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
The crowd erupted after Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against the opposition.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic had actually recovered well from the hosts' quick opening. The defender, who struggled throughout, turned the ball into his own net due to haste when trying to deal with a Shankland cross. They gradually fought back into the game, leader Callum McGregor, turning home a Tierney pass for 1-1.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The shot-stopper Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Nygren in the first half, parried an Engels shot which touched Tómas Magnússon. Halkett thwarted a Yamada attempt in the dying moments. The hosts faced little else as the clock ticked down. “We shall not be moved” has become the favoured chant at Tynecastle. It is becoming increasingly difficult the excitement.
- Detailed coverage to follow.
