The Tynecastle side Move 8 Points Clear in Front at Top After Shankland's Penalty Sees Off The Hoops
History wasn't made at their home ground, as it's far too early for such landmarks. This game highlighted is that the Edinburgh club have a genuine credible shot of disrupting Scottish football's four decade-long stranglehold. Make that an eight-point lead for Hearts over Celtic, whom they easily dispatched. The challenge is now for others.
Key Moments in the After the Break
A crucial three-minute spell made the difference, after an opening period that was contested closely. What was so notable after they extended their advantage was how untroubled the closing stages of the game was for the home side. Alexandros Kyziridis netted the second goal, moving infield before firing a powerful effort past the static the goalkeeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Dane Murray upending Cláudio Braga for a foul that Shankland tucked away. Brendan Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; challenges abound for him.
The crowd erupted after Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead 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 deal with a Shankland cross. Celtic edged their way back into the game, skipper McGregor, scoring a Kieran Tierney pull-back for the equaliser.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The Hearts goalkeeper Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Nygren in the first half, parried an Arne Engels shot which flicked off Tómas Magnússon. Halkett stopped a Shin Yamada attempt in added time. The hosts faced little else as the minutes passed. “We remain resolute” has become the favoured chant at Tynecastle. It is becoming increasingly difficult the buzz.
- Complete analysis coming soon.
