The Tynecastle side Extend 8 Points Clear Ahead at Top Following Shankland's Spot-Kick Defeats Celtic
History wasn't made at Tynecastle Park, as it's far too early for such landmarks. This game highlighted is that the Edinburgh club have a genuine serious opportunity of ending Scottish football's long-standing dominance by two. They now lead by eight points for the maroon side over Celtic, whom they decisively beat. Try to chase them down.
Decisive Period in the Latter Period
A brief but pivotal phase were key, once the initial exchanges that was contested closely. What was so notable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how comfortable the closing stages of the game was for the Tynecastle team. The Greek winger scored Hearts’ second, drifting inside before blasting a strike past the static Kasper Schmeichel. More joy followed in the stands, Dane Murray upending Cláudio Braga for a foul that Lawrence Shankland converted. Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; his problems are mounting.
Fans start to rejoice after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against Celtic.
Celtic's Response
Celtic bounced back from the hosts' quick opening. Dane Murray, who struggled throughout, conceded an own goal due to panic when trying to deal with a Shankland cross. The Hoops worked their way into the game, the captain Callum McGregor, finishing a Tierney pass for level terms.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The Hearts goalkeeper Alexander Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Nygren in the first half, blocked an Arne Engels shot which flicked off Magnússon. Craig Halkett stopped a Shin Yamada attempt in added time. They comfortably saw out the game as the game concluded. “We stand firm” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at Tynecastle. It's hard to ignore the noise.
- Complete analysis coming soon.
