The Jambos Move Eight Points Ahead at the Pinnacle Following Shankland's Spot-Kick Overcomes Celtic
History wasn't made at Tynecastle, with it being far too early for such landmarks. The encounter underlined is that Heart of Midlothian have a genuine serious opportunity of ending Scottish football's long-standing title duopoly. That advantage stands at eight points for the team over the visitors, whom they easily dispatched. Try to chase them down.
Turning Point in the Second Half
Three second-half minutes proved decisive, following a tight first half that was evenly matched. The striking aspect after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how comfortable the remainder of the game was for the Tynecastle team. The Greek winger netted the second goal, cutting in from the left before blasting a strike past the static Kasper Schmeichel. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Dane Murray upending Braga for a spot-kick that the captain converted. Rodgers appeared frustrated; his problems are mounting.
Supporters began celebrating after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against Celtic.
Celtic's Response
Celtic had actually recovered well from an early setback. Murray, who endured a torrid afternoon, turned the ball into his own net due to haste when trying to clear a delivery from Shankland. The Hoops worked their way into the game, the captain McGregor, turning home a Kieran Tierney pass for level terms.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The Hearts goalkeeper Alexander Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, parried an Engels shot which deflected off Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett blocked a Shin Yamada attempt in added time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the game concluded. “We stand firm” has become the favoured chant at the stadium. It's hard to ignore the noise.
- Full report will be available.
