The Jambos Move Eight Points Clear in Front at the Pinnacle Following Shankland's Penalty Kick Overcomes Celtic
We did not witness at Tynecastle Park, with it being far too early for such achievements. What this match did emphasise is that Heart of Midlothian have a genuine credible shot of ending Scottish football's four decade-long dominance by two. That advantage stands at eight points for the maroon side over Celtic, whom they easily dispatched. Try to chase them down.
Turning Point in the After the Break
A crucial three-minute spell made the difference, once the initial exchanges that was contested closely. What was so notable after they took a 3-1 lead was how stress-free the rest of the game was for the home side. The Greek winger netted the second goal, drifting inside before firing a powerful effort past the stationary Kasper Schmeichel. More joy followed in the stands, Dane Murray fouling the Hearts player for a foul that Lawrence Shankland slotted home. Brendan Rodgers looked dejected; challenges abound for him.
Supporters began celebrating after Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against Celtic.
The Visitors' Fightback
The away side responded positively from Hearts’ rapid start. Dane Murray, who endured a torrid afternoon, scored an own goal due to confusion when trying to clear a delivery from Shankland. Celtic edged their way back into the game, the captain Callum McGregor, scoring a Kieran Tierney cutback for 1-1.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The shot-stopper Schwolow, who had denied from Nygren in the first half, kept out an Arne Engels shot which flicked off Magnússon. Craig Halkett blocked a Yamada attempt in stoppage time. They comfortably saw out the game as the minutes passed. “We stand firm” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the ground. It is becoming increasingly difficult the buzz.
- Detailed coverage to follow.
