The Tynecastle side Extend 8 Points Clear in Front at the Summit After Shankland's Penalty Overcomes Celtic
History wasn't made at Tynecastle, as it's far too early for such achievements. The encounter underlined is that Heart of Midlothian possess a real serious opportunity of ending Scottish football's four decade-long stranglehold. They now lead by eight points for Hearts over the visitors, whom they comfortably swatted aside. Try to chase them down.
Key Moments in the After the Break
Three second-half minutes made the difference, once the initial exchanges that was contested closely. What was so notable after they took a 3-1 lead was how untroubled the closing stages of the game was for the Tynecastle team. The Greek winger scored Hearts’ second, drifting inside before blasting a strike past the static the goalkeeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, the Celtic defender bringing down Braga for a spot-kick that the captain tucked away. Brendan Rodgers looked dejected; his problems are mounting.
Fans start to rejoice after Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against the opposition.
Celtic's Response
The away side responded positively from Hearts’ rapid start. Dane Murray, who had a difficult day, conceded an own goal due to confusion when trying to remove a Shankland cross. The Hoops worked their way into the game, the captain Callum McGregor, turning home a Tierney pull-back for 1-1.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The keeper Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Nygren in the first half, parried an Arne Engels shot which touched Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett blocked a Shin Yamada attempt in stoppage time. The hosts faced little else as the minutes passed. “We shall not be moved” has become the favoured chant at Tynecastle. One cannot overlook the buzz.
- Complete analysis to follow.
