The Tynecastle side Extend Eight Points Clear in Front at the Summit After Shankland's Spot-Kick Defeats Celtic
We did not witness at Tynecastle, as it's far too early for such landmarks. The encounter underlined is that Heart of Midlothian are at least in with strong chance of ending Scottish football's four decade-long title duopoly. Make that an eight-point lead for the maroon side over Celtic, whom they decisively beat. Catch them if you can.
Key Moments in the After the Break
A crucial three-minute spell made the difference, after an opening period 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 home side. Alexandros Kyziridis doubled the lead, drifting inside before blasting a strike past the stationary the goalkeeper. Delight increased in the stands, the Celtic defender upending Cláudio Braga for a foul that Shankland converted. Brendan Rodgers appeared frustrated; his problems are mounting.
Supporters began celebrating after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against the opposition.
Celtic's Response
Celtic had actually recovered well from the hosts' quick opening. Dane Murray, who endured a torrid afternoon, turned the ball into his own net due to haste when trying to clear a ball into the box. They gradually fought back into the game, leader McGregor, scoring a Kieran Tierney pass for 1-1.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The Hearts goalkeeper Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Nygren in the first half, blocked an Arne Engels shot which touched Tómas Magnússon. Halkett stopped a Shin Yamada attempt in stoppage time. They comfortably saw out the game as the game concluded. “We remain resolute” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the stadium. One cannot overlook the noise.
- Full report to follow.
