Hearts Push 8 Points in Front at the Summit Following Shankland's Spot-Kick Defeats The Hoops
History wasn't made at Tynecastle Park, with it being far too early for such landmarks. The encounter underlined is that the Edinburgh club possess a real strong chance of ending Scottish football's four decade-long title duopoly. Make that an eight-point lead for Hearts over the visitors, whom they easily dispatched. Try to chase them down.
Key Moments in the Second Half
A crucial three-minute spell proved decisive, once the initial exchanges that was fiercely fought. What was so notable after they took a 3-1 lead was how stress-free the remainder of the game was for the hosts. Kyziridis scored Hearts’ second, drifting inside before thumping a right-footed shot past the stationary the Celtic keeper. More joy followed in the stands, the Celtic defender fouling Braga for a spot-kick that the captain tucked away. Brendan Rodgers appeared frustrated; his problems are mounting.
Supporters began celebrating after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against the opposition.
Hoops' Reaction
The away side responded positively from Hearts’ rapid start. Dane Murray, who struggled throughout, scored an own goal due to panic when trying to clear a delivery from Shankland. Celtic edged their way back into the game, skipper Callum McGregor, turning home a Kieran Tierney cutback for the equaliser.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The keeper Alexander Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, parried an Arne Engels shot which touched Tómas Magnússon. Halkett blocked a Yamada attempt in added time. They comfortably saw out the game as the clock ticked down. “We stand firm” has become the favoured chant at the stadium. One cannot overlook the buzz.
- Full report to follow.