Hearts Push Eight Points in Front at the Summit Following Shankland's Penalty Overcomes The Hoops
We did not witness at Tynecastle, with it being far too early for such landmarks. What this match did emphasise is that Hearts possess a real strong chance of disrupting Scottish football's long-standing title duopoly. That advantage stands at eight points for the team over the visitors, whom they decisively beat. Try to chase them down.
Turning Point in the Second Half
Three second-half minutes proved decisive, after an opening period that was fiercely fought. What was so notable after they took a 3-1 lead was how comfortable the closing stages of the game was for the home side. Alexandros Kyziridis scored Hearts’ second, cutting in from the left before blasting a strike past the stationary the goalkeeper. Delight increased in the stands, Murray bringing down Braga for a foul that Shankland tucked away. Rodgers looked dejected; challenges abound for him.
The crowd erupted after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against the opposition.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic had actually recovered well from Hearts’ rapid start. Murray, who had a difficult day, turned the ball into his own net due to haste when trying to clear a delivery from Shankland. They gradually fought back into the game, skipper Callum McGregor, turning home a Tierney cutback for 1-1.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The shot-stopper Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Nygren in the first half, blocked an Arne Engels shot which deflected off Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett thwarted a Shin Yamada attempt in stoppage time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the clock ticked down. “We stand firm” has become the popular anthem at the ground. It's hard to ignore the excitement.
- Full report will be available.
