The Tynecastle side Move 8 Points Clear in Front at the Summit After Shankland's Penalty Kick Sees Off Celtic
We did not witness at their home ground, with it being far too early for such milestones. What this match did emphasise is that Heart of Midlothian have a genuine strong chance of breaking Scottish football's 40-year stranglehold. They now lead by eight points for Hearts over Celtic, whom they comfortably swatted aside. Try to chase them down.
Turning Point in the Latter Period
A crucial three-minute spell were key, once the initial exchanges that was evenly matched. The striking aspect after they extended their advantage was how stress-free the rest of the game was for the Tynecastle team. The Greek winger scored Hearts’ second, drifting inside before firing a powerful effort past the stationary Kasper Schmeichel. More joy followed in the stands, the Celtic defender fouling Cláudio Braga for a penalty that Lawrence Shankland slotted home. The Celtic manager looked dejected; his problems are mounting.
Fans start to rejoice after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against Celtic.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic bounced back from the hosts' quick opening. Dane Murray, who had a difficult day, conceded an own goal due to panic when trying to deal with a Shankland cross. They gradually fought back into the game, skipper McGregor, scoring a Kieran Tierney pass for level terms.
Solid Backline
The Hearts goalkeeper Alexander Schwolow, who had denied from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, kept out an Arne Engels shot which flicked off Magnússon. Craig Halkett thwarted a Yamada attempt in added time. The hosts faced little else as the game concluded. “We remain resolute” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at Tynecastle. It's hard to ignore the excitement.
- Complete analysis to follow.
