The Jambos Move 8 Points Clear Clear at the Pinnacle After Shankland's Penalty Kick Overcomes Celtic
History wasn't made at Tynecastle Park, since it's far too early for such landmarks. The encounter underlined is that Hearts are at least in with serious opportunity of ending Scottish football's 40-year stranglehold. Make that an eight-point lead for the team over their rivals, whom they decisively beat. Catch them if you can.
Decisive Period in the After the Break
Three second-half minutes were key, after an opening period that was contested closely. It was remarkable after they took a 3-1 lead was how stress-free the remainder of the game was for the hosts. Alexandros Kyziridis doubled the lead, drifting inside before thumping a right-footed shot past the motionless Kasper Schmeichel. Delight increased in the stands, Murray bringing down Braga for a spot-kick that Lawrence Shankland tucked away. Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; his problems are mounting.
Supporters began celebrating after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against Celtic.
The Visitors' Fightback
Celtic bounced back from the hosts' quick opening. Dane Murray, who had a difficult day, scored an own goal due to haste when trying to clear a Shankland cross. The Hoops worked their way into the game, skipper McGregor, scoring a Kieran Tierney cutback for level terms.
Stubborn Defence
The shot-stopper Alexander Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Nygren in the first half, kept out an Arne Engels shot which deflected off Magnússon. Halkett thwarted a Shin Yamada attempt in the dying moments. They comfortably saw out the game as the clock ticked down. “We shall not be moved” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at Tynecastle. One cannot overlook the excitement.
- Full report will be available.
