The Tynecastle side Push Eight Points in Front at Top After Shankland's Penalty Overcomes Celtic
A historic moment didn't occur at their home ground, since it's far too early for such landmarks. The encounter underlined is that the Edinburgh club are at least in with serious opportunity of disrupting Scottish football's long-standing title duopoly. They now lead by eight points for Hearts over the visitors, whom they easily dispatched. Try to chase them down.
Turning Point in the After the Break
A brief but pivotal phase made the difference, following a tight first half that was evenly matched. It was remarkable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how stress-free the remainder of the game was for the hosts. The Greek winger doubled the lead, drifting inside before thumping a right-footed shot past the static Kasper Schmeichel. Delight increased in the stands, Dane Murray bringing down the Hearts player for a spot-kick that Lawrence Shankland tucked away. Brendan Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; his problems are mounting.
Supporters began celebrating after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against the opposition.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic bounced back from Hearts’ rapid start. Dane Murray, who endured a torrid afternoon, scored an own goal due to panic when trying to remove a delivery from Shankland. They gradually fought back into the game, skipper McGregor, finishing a Tierney pass for the equaliser.
Stubborn Defence
The Hearts goalkeeper Alexander Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Nygren in the first half, parried an Arne Engels shot which touched Magnússon. Craig Halkett thwarted a Shin Yamada attempt in the dying moments. They comfortably saw out the game as the clock ticked down. “We remain resolute” has become the favoured chant at the ground. It is becoming increasingly difficult the excitement.
- Full report to follow.
