Hearts Move 8 Points Clear Ahead at the Summit Following Shankland's Spot-Kick Defeats The Hoops
A historic moment didn't occur at Tynecastle, as it's far too early for such landmarks. What this match did emphasise is that Hearts possess a real strong chance of breaking Scottish football's long-standing stranglehold. They now lead by eight points for the team over Celtic, whom they easily dispatched. The challenge is now for others.
Turning Point in the Latter Period
A brief but pivotal phase proved decisive, after an opening period that was evenly matched. The striking aspect after they took a 3-1 lead was how stress-free the remainder of the game was for the home side. Alexandros Kyziridis scored Hearts’ second, drifting inside before firing a powerful effort past the static the Celtic keeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Murray upending the Hearts player for a foul that the captain converted. Brendan Rodgers looked dejected; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
Supporters began celebrating after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against Celtic.
The Visitors' Fightback
Celtic bounced back from an early setback. The defender, who endured a torrid afternoon, conceded an own goal due to panic when trying to clear a Shankland cross. Celtic edged their way back into the game, leader Callum McGregor, scoring a Tierney pass for 1-1.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The shot-stopper Schwolow, who had denied from Nygren in the first half, parried an Arne Engels shot which flicked off Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett blocked a Shin Yamada attempt in stoppage time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the clock ticked down. “We shall not be moved” has become the favoured chant at the stadium. It is becoming increasingly difficult the buzz.
- Complete analysis to follow.
