The Jambos Move Eight Points Clear in Front at the Summit Following Shankland's Penalty Defeats Celtic
History wasn't made at Tynecastle, since it's far too early for such milestones. This game highlighted is that the Edinburgh club possess a real credible shot of disrupting Scottish football's 40-year dominance by two. They now lead by eight points for the team over their rivals, whom they easily dispatched. The challenge is now for others.
Turning Point in the Latter Period
Three second-half minutes proved decisive, after an opening period that was fiercely fought. What was so notable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how comfortable the closing stages of the game was for the home side. The Greek winger doubled the lead, cutting in from the left before blasting a strike past the stationary the goalkeeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, the Celtic defender upending the Hearts player for a spot-kick that Lawrence Shankland tucked away. Brendan Rodgers looked dejected; his problems are mounting.
Supporters began celebrating after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against the opposition.
The Visitors' Fightback
Celtic bounced back from an early setback. Murray, who struggled throughout, conceded an own goal due to panic when trying to clear a delivery from Shankland. The Hoops worked their way into the game, skipper McGregor, scoring a Tierney pull-back for 1-1.
Stubborn Defence
The shot-stopper Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, parried an Arne Engels shot which deflected off Magnússon. Craig Halkett blocked a Shin Yamada attempt in added time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the minutes passed. “We shall not be moved” has become the favoured chant at the ground. It's hard to ignore the noise.
- Full report will be available.
