Hearts Push 8 Points Clear in Front at the Pinnacle After Shankland's Penalty Kick Defeats Celtic
We did not witness at Tynecastle Park, with it being far too early for such milestones. This game highlighted is that the Edinburgh club possess a real serious opportunity of breaking Scottish football's four decade-long dominance by two. Make that an eight-point lead for the team over the visitors, whom they easily dispatched. The challenge is now for others.
Key Moments in the Latter Period
Three second-half minutes were key, following a tight first half that was evenly matched. It was remarkable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how untroubled the remainder of the game was for the hosts. Alexandros Kyziridis doubled the lead, cutting in from the left before firing a powerful effort past the stationary the goalkeeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Dane Murray bringing down Cláudio Braga for a penalty that the captain slotted home. Brendan Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; challenges abound for him.
Supporters began celebrating after Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against the opposition.
The Visitors' Fightback
Celtic bounced back from an early setback. Murray, who struggled throughout, conceded an own goal due to haste when trying to remove a ball into the box. They gradually fought back into the game, the captain McGregor, finishing a Kieran Tierney pass for level terms.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The keeper Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Nygren in the first half, parried an Arne Engels shot which touched Magnússon. Craig Halkett thwarted a Shin Yamada attempt in stoppage time. The hosts faced little else as the clock ticked down. “We stand firm” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at Tynecastle. One cannot overlook the noise.
- Full report to follow.
