Hearts Extend Eight Points Clear at the Pinnacle Following Shankland's Penalty Sees Off The Hoops
History wasn't made at their home ground, since it's far too early for such landmarks. The encounter underlined is that Hearts have a genuine strong chance of disrupting Scottish football's 40-year dominance by two. That advantage stands at eight points for Hearts over their rivals, whom they comfortably swatted aside. Catch them if you can.
Turning Point in the Latter Period
A brief but pivotal phase were key, once the initial exchanges that was evenly matched. It was remarkable after they took a 3-1 lead was how stress-free the closing stages of the game was for the home side. Alexandros Kyziridis scored Hearts’ second, drifting inside before blasting a strike past the stationary the goalkeeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Dane Murray fouling the Hearts player for a spot-kick that Lawrence Shankland slotted home. Brendan Rodgers appeared frustrated; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
The crowd erupted after Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against Celtic.
The Visitors' Fightback
Celtic had actually recovered well from the hosts' quick opening. Dane Murray, who endured a torrid afternoon, scored an own goal due to panic when trying to deal with a Shankland cross. Celtic edged their way back into the game, leader McGregor, finishing a Kieran Tierney pull-back for level terms.
Solid Backline
The keeper Alexander Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Nygren in the first half, parried an Arne Engels shot which deflected off Magnússon. Halkett stopped a Shin Yamada attempt in added time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the game concluded. “We remain resolute” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at Tynecastle. One cannot overlook the buzz.
- Detailed coverage to follow.
