Hearts Move 8 Points in Front at the Summit After Shankland's Penalty Kick Sees Off Celtic
History wasn't made at their home ground, with it being far too early for such milestones. What this match did emphasise is that Hearts are at least in with credible shot of breaking Scottish football's 40-year dominance by two. That advantage stands at eight points for the maroon side over the visitors, whom they easily dispatched. The challenge is now for others.
Turning Point in the Second Half
Three second-half minutes were key, after an opening period that was contested closely. The striking aspect after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how stress-free the remainder of the game was for the hosts. Alexandros Kyziridis doubled the lead, cutting in from the left before blasting a strike past the stationary the Celtic keeper. More joy followed in the stands, Dane Murray bringing down Braga for a penalty that the captain slotted home. Rodgers looked dejected; challenges abound for him.
Fans start to rejoice after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against Celtic.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic had actually recovered well from an early setback. Murray, who struggled throughout, scored an own goal due to haste when trying to remove a Shankland cross. They gradually fought back into the game, leader McGregor, finishing a Kieran Tierney cutback for level terms.
Stubborn Defence
The keeper Alexander Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, parried an Arne Engels shot which touched Magnússon. Halkett blocked a Shin Yamada attempt in added time. They comfortably saw out the game as the game concluded. “We remain resolute” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the stadium. It is becoming increasingly difficult the buzz.
- Detailed coverage to follow.
