The Tynecastle side Push 8 Points Clear at Top After Shankland's Penalty Sees Off The Hoops
History wasn't made at Tynecastle, with it being far too early for such milestones. The encounter underlined is that the Edinburgh club are at least in with credible shot of ending Scottish football's 40-year stranglehold. That advantage stands at eight points for the maroon side over Celtic, whom they decisively beat. Catch them if you can.
Decisive Period in the Second Half
A brief but pivotal phase proved decisive, once the initial exchanges that was evenly matched. It was remarkable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how untroubled the closing stages of the game was for the hosts. The Greek winger netted the second goal, cutting in from the left before thumping a right-footed shot past the static the Celtic keeper. More joy followed in the stands, Dane Murray upending the Hearts player for a penalty that Lawrence Shankland tucked away. Brendan Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; his problems are mounting.
Fans start to rejoice after Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against the opposition.
Hoops' Reaction
The away side responded positively from an early setback. Murray, who had a difficult day, scored an own goal due to confusion when trying to deal with a Shankland cross. They gradually fought back into the game, leader Callum McGregor, turning home a Tierney pass for 1-1.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The keeper Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Nygren in the first half, blocked an Engels shot which deflected off Tómas Magnússon. Halkett blocked a Yamada attempt in stoppage time. They comfortably saw out the game as the clock ticked down. “We shall not be moved” has become the popular anthem at the stadium. One cannot overlook the excitement.
- Full report will be available.
