The Tynecastle side Move Eight Points Clear in Front at the Pinnacle After Shankland's Spot-Kick Defeats The Hoops
We did not witness at Tynecastle, as it's far too early for such landmarks. What this match did emphasise is that Heart of Midlothian have a genuine serious opportunity of ending Scottish football's long-standing stranglehold. They now lead by eight points for the maroon side over Celtic, whom they comfortably swatted aside. Catch them if you can.
Turning Point in the After the Break
Three second-half minutes proved decisive, following a tight first half that was fiercely fought. It was remarkable after they took a 3-1 lead was how comfortable the closing stages of the game was for the hosts. The Greek winger scored Hearts’ second, moving infield before thumping a right-footed shot past the motionless the Celtic keeper. More joy followed in the stands, Murray upending Braga for a penalty that Shankland converted. Brendan Rodgers appeared frustrated; his problems are mounting.
Fans start to rejoice after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against the opposition.
The Visitors' Fightback
Celtic had actually recovered well from Hearts’ rapid start. The defender, who endured a torrid afternoon, scored an own goal due to panic when trying to deal with a Shankland cross. The Hoops worked their way into the game, leader Callum McGregor, scoring a Tierney pull-back for level terms.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The Hearts goalkeeper Alexander Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Nygren in the first half, blocked an Arne Engels shot which flicked off Tómas Magnússon. Halkett stopped a Yamada attempt in the dying moments. They comfortably saw out the game as the clock ticked down. “We remain resolute” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the stadium. It's hard to ignore the buzz.
- Detailed coverage to follow.
