The Jambos Move 8 Points Clear at Top Following Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Overcomes Celtic
A historic moment didn't occur at their home ground, with it being far too early for such landmarks. The encounter underlined is that Hearts possess a real credible shot of ending Scottish football's 40-year stranglehold. They now lead by eight points for the team over Celtic, whom they decisively beat. Catch them if you can.
Decisive Period in the After the Break
A crucial three-minute spell proved decisive, after an opening period that was evenly matched. The striking aspect after they took a 3-1 lead was how stress-free the closing stages of the game was for the hosts. Alexandros Kyziridis netted the second goal, drifting inside before thumping a right-footed shot past the stationary the goalkeeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Dane Murray fouling Cláudio Braga for a penalty that Shankland converted. Brendan Rodgers looked dejected; challenges abound for him.
The crowd erupted after Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against Celtic.
Celtic's Response
Celtic bounced back from Hearts’ rapid start. The defender, who struggled throughout, scored an own goal due to panic when trying to clear a ball into the box. They gradually fought back into the game, leader Callum McGregor, scoring a Kieran Tierney pull-back for level terms.
Stubborn Defence
The Hearts goalkeeper Alexander Schwolow, who had denied from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, kept out an Engels shot which flicked off Magnússon. Halkett thwarted a Yamada attempt in stoppage time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the game concluded. “We remain resolute” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the ground. It's hard to ignore the noise.
- Detailed coverage to follow.
