The Jambos Extend 8 Points Clear at Top After Shankland's Penalty Sees Off Celtic
A historic moment didn't occur at Tynecastle Park, with it being far too early for such landmarks. This game highlighted is that Hearts possess a real credible shot of breaking Scottish football's long-standing stranglehold. That advantage stands at eight points for Hearts over the visitors, whom they easily dispatched. Catch them if you can.
Turning Point in the Latter Period
A crucial three-minute spell were key, once the initial exchanges that was evenly matched. What was so notable after they took a 3-1 lead was how untroubled the closing stages of the game was for the hosts. Alexandros Kyziridis doubled the lead, cutting in from the left before thumping a right-footed shot past the motionless Kasper Schmeichel. Delight increased in the stands, the Celtic defender fouling Braga for a spot-kick that Shankland slotted home. Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; his problems are mounting.
Supporters began celebrating after Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against the opposition.
The Visitors' Fightback
Celtic had actually recovered well from the hosts' quick opening. Dane Murray, who had a difficult day, scored an own goal due to confusion when trying to clear a delivery from Shankland. They gradually fought back into the game, leader Callum McGregor, scoring a Tierney pass for 1-1.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The Hearts goalkeeper Schwolow, who had denied from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, parried an Arne Engels shot which flicked off Magnússon. Halkett blocked a Yamada attempt in stoppage time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the minutes passed. “We remain resolute” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the stadium. It is becoming increasingly difficult the noise.
- Complete analysis to follow.