The Jambos Extend 8 Points Ahead at Top Following Shankland's Penalty Defeats The Hoops
We did not witness at their home ground, since it's far too early for such milestones. What this match did emphasise is that the Edinburgh club are at least in with credible shot of breaking Scottish football's 40-year title duopoly. Make that an eight-point lead for Hearts over their rivals, whom they decisively beat. The challenge is now for others.
Key Moments in the Second Half
Three second-half minutes were key, once the initial exchanges that was fiercely fought. The striking aspect after they extended their advantage was how untroubled the rest of the game was for the hosts. Alexandros Kyziridis doubled the lead, drifting inside before thumping a right-footed shot past the motionless the goalkeeper. Delight increased in the stands, Murray fouling Cláudio Braga for a foul that the captain converted. Rodgers appeared frustrated; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
Supporters began celebrating after Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against Celtic.
Celtic's Response
Celtic bounced back from an early setback. Dane Murray, who had a difficult day, scored an own goal due to confusion when trying to remove a delivery from Shankland. Celtic edged their way back into the game, leader Callum McGregor, finishing a Kieran Tierney cutback for the equaliser.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The Hearts goalkeeper Alexander Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Nygren in the first half, parried an Arne Engels shot which deflected off Magnússon. Craig Halkett thwarted a Shin Yamada attempt in stoppage time. They comfortably saw out the game as the game concluded. “We stand firm” has become the favoured chant at Tynecastle. It's hard to ignore the buzz.
- Detailed coverage coming soon.
