The Tynecastle side Extend 8 Points Clear Clear at the Pinnacle After Shankland's Penalty Kick Overcomes The Hoops
History wasn't made at Tynecastle, as it's far too early for such milestones. The encounter underlined is that Heart of Midlothian possess a real strong chance of ending Scottish football's four decade-long stranglehold. That advantage stands at eight points for the maroon side over the visitors, whom they comfortably swatted aside. The challenge is now for others.
Key Moments in the Latter Period
A crucial three-minute spell proved decisive, following a tight first half that was contested closely. The striking aspect after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how stress-free the closing stages of the game was for the home side. The Greek winger doubled the lead, cutting in from the left before blasting a strike past the static the Celtic keeper. Delight increased in the stands, Dane Murray fouling Cláudio Braga for a spot-kick that Shankland converted. Brendan Rodgers appeared frustrated; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
Fans start to rejoice after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against Celtic.
Celtic's Response
Celtic bounced back from Hearts’ rapid start. Dane Murray, who struggled throughout, scored an own goal due to haste when trying to remove a ball into the box. They gradually fought back into the game, leader McGregor, scoring a Kieran Tierney cutback for 1-1.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The shot-stopper Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, parried an Engels shot which deflected off Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett stopped a Shin Yamada attempt in the dying moments. They comfortably saw out the game as the minutes passed. “We shall not be moved” has become the popular anthem at the ground. It is becoming increasingly difficult the noise.
- Detailed coverage coming soon.
