The Tynecastle side Push 8 Points Ahead Ahead at the Summit Following Shankland's Penalty Kick Overcomes The Hoops
A historic moment didn't occur at their home ground, with it being far too early for such achievements. This game highlighted is that the Edinburgh club have a genuine credible shot of disrupting Scottish football's 40-year dominance by two. They now lead by eight points for the maroon side over Celtic, whom they easily dispatched. Catch them if you can.
Decisive Period in the After the Break
A brief but pivotal phase made the difference, after an opening period that was contested closely. What was so notable after they extended their advantage was how untroubled the closing stages of the game was for the home side. The Greek winger netted the second goal, drifting inside before thumping a right-footed shot past the stationary the Celtic keeper. More joy followed in the stands, Murray fouling Cláudio Braga for a penalty that Shankland tucked away. Rodgers looked dejected; his problems are mounting.
The crowd erupted after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against Celtic.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic bounced back from Hearts’ rapid start. Dane Murray, who had a difficult day, scored an own goal due to confusion when trying to remove a Shankland cross. The Hoops worked their way into the game, skipper McGregor, scoring a Tierney cutback for 1-1.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The shot-stopper Alexander Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Nygren in the first half, parried an Engels shot which deflected off Magnússon. Halkett blocked a Shin Yamada attempt in stoppage time. They comfortably saw out the game as the clock ticked down. “We remain resolute” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the ground. One cannot overlook the buzz.
- Complete analysis to follow.
