The Jambos Push Eight Points Ahead in Front at the Pinnacle Following Shankland's Penalty Kick Defeats The Hoops
A historic moment didn't occur at Tynecastle Park, since it's far too early for such achievements. The encounter underlined is that Heart of Midlothian have a genuine credible shot of breaking Scottish football's long-standing title duopoly. Make that an eight-point lead for Hearts over the visitors, whom they easily dispatched. Catch them if you can.
Turning Point in the After the Break
A crucial three-minute spell made the difference, following a tight first half that was evenly matched. The striking aspect after they extended their advantage was how comfortable the closing stages of the game was for the home side. The Greek winger doubled the lead, moving infield before thumping a right-footed shot past the static the goalkeeper. More joy followed in the stands, Dane Murray fouling Cláudio Braga for a penalty that Shankland slotted home. Rodgers looked dejected; his problems are mounting.
Supporters began celebrating after Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against Celtic.
Celtic's Response
Celtic had actually recovered well from Hearts’ rapid start. The defender, who endured a torrid afternoon, turned the ball into his own net due to haste when trying to remove a delivery from Shankland. Celtic edged their way back into the game, skipper McGregor, finishing a Kieran Tierney pull-back for 1-1.
Solid Backline
The keeper Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Nygren in the first half, blocked an Engels shot which deflected off Magnússon. Halkett blocked a Shin Yamada attempt in the dying moments. The hosts faced little else as the clock ticked down. “We stand firm” has become the popular anthem at the ground. One cannot overlook the excitement.
- Complete analysis to follow.
