The Tynecastle side Extend 8 Points Ahead Clear at the Pinnacle After Shankland's Penalty Defeats The Hoops
We did not witness at their home ground, since it's far too early for such achievements. This game highlighted is that Hearts 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 team over Celtic, whom they decisively beat. Try to chase them down.
Key Moments in the Latter Period
A crucial three-minute spell proved decisive, once the initial exchanges that was evenly matched. What was so notable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how untroubled the remainder of the game was for the home side. Kyziridis scored Hearts’ second, cutting in from the left before thumping a right-footed shot past the stationary the goalkeeper. More joy followed in the stands, Murray upending Cláudio Braga for a spot-kick that Shankland converted. Rodgers looked dejected; his problems are mounting.
Fans start to rejoice after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against Celtic.
Celtic's Response
Celtic had actually recovered well from the hosts' quick opening. Murray, who had a difficult day, turned the ball into his own net due to confusion when trying to remove a delivery from Shankland. They gradually fought back into the game, skipper Callum McGregor, turning home a Tierney pass for the equaliser.
Solid Backline
The keeper Alexander Schwolow, who had denied from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, blocked an Arne Engels shot which deflected off Magnússon. Craig Halkett blocked a Shin Yamada attempt in the dying moments. The hosts faced little else as the clock ticked down. “We stand firm” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at Tynecastle. It's hard to ignore the buzz.
- Detailed coverage to follow.
