The Tynecastle side Move 8 Points in Front at the Summit After Shankland's Spot-Kick Overcomes The Hoops
A historic moment didn't occur at Tynecastle Park, with it being far too early for such milestones. This game highlighted is that the Edinburgh club have a genuine credible shot of disrupting Scottish football's four decade-long stranglehold. That advantage stands at eight points for Hearts over Celtic, whom they easily dispatched. The challenge is now for others.
Turning Point in the After the Break
Three second-half minutes proved decisive, after an opening period that was contested closely. What was so notable after they extended their advantage was how untroubled the remainder of the game was for the home side. Alexandros Kyziridis doubled the lead, moving infield before firing a powerful effort past the motionless the goalkeeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Dane Murray upending the Hearts player for a penalty that Shankland tucked away. Rodgers looked dejected; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
Supporters began celebrating after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against Celtic.
Celtic's Response
Celtic had actually recovered well from the hosts' quick opening. Dane Murray, who struggled throughout, scored an own goal due to confusion when trying to clear a delivery from Shankland. Celtic edged their way back into the game, skipper McGregor, turning home a Kieran Tierney pull-back for the equaliser.
Solid Backline
The shot-stopper Alexander Schwolow, who had denied from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, blocked an Arne Engels shot which touched Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett blocked a Shin Yamada attempt in added time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the minutes passed. “We remain resolute” has become the favoured chant at the stadium. It is becoming increasingly difficult the excitement.
- Detailed coverage to follow.
