The Jambos Extend 8 Points Ahead Clear at Top After Shankland's Penalty Sees Off The Hoops
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 four decade-long stranglehold. Make that an eight-point lead for the team over the visitors, whom they decisively beat. Catch them if you can.
Turning Point in the Second Half
Three second-half minutes proved decisive, following a tight first half that was fiercely fought. It was remarkable after they extended their advantage was how comfortable the remainder of the game was for the hosts. Alexandros Kyziridis netted the second goal, cutting in from the left before blasting a strike past the motionless Kasper Schmeichel. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Murray upending the Hearts player for a penalty that Shankland slotted home. Brendan Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; his problems are mounting.
Supporters began celebrating after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against Celtic.
Hoops' Reaction
The away side responded positively from Hearts’ rapid start. Dane Murray, who struggled throughout, turned the ball into his own net due to confusion when trying to clear a Shankland cross. Celtic edged their way back into the game, the captain Callum McGregor, turning home a Kieran Tierney cutback for the equaliser.
Stubborn Defence
The Hearts goalkeeper Alexander Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, blocked an Arne Engels shot which flicked off Magnússon. Halkett stopped a Shin Yamada attempt in the dying moments. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the minutes passed. “We remain resolute” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the stadium. It's hard to ignore the excitement.
- Full report to follow.
