The Tynecastle side Extend Eight Points Ahead Ahead at the Pinnacle After Shankland's Penalty Defeats The Hoops
History wasn't made at Tynecastle, with it being far too early for such milestones. What this match did emphasise is that Hearts possess a real serious opportunity of ending Scottish football's long-standing stranglehold. Make that an eight-point lead for Hearts over the visitors, whom they decisively beat. Catch them if you can.
Key Moments in the Latter Period
A crucial three-minute spell were key, once the initial exchanges that was fiercely fought. What was so notable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how untroubled the remainder of the game was for the Tynecastle team. The Greek winger scored Hearts’ second, drifting inside before firing a powerful effort past the stationary Kasper Schmeichel. Delight increased in the stands, Dane Murray bringing down the Hearts player for a penalty that Shankland converted. Brendan Rodgers looked dejected; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
Fans start to rejoice after Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against Celtic.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic had actually recovered well from Hearts’ rapid start. Dane Murray, who endured a torrid afternoon, scored an own goal due to panic when trying to deal with a Shankland cross. They gradually fought back into the game, skipper McGregor, turning home a Kieran Tierney cutback for the equaliser.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The keeper Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Nygren in the first half, kept out an Engels shot which flicked off Magnússon. Halkett stopped a Shin Yamada attempt in the dying moments. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the minutes passed. “We remain resolute” has become the favoured chant at the stadium. It's hard to ignore the buzz.
- Full report coming soon.
