The Jambos Extend 8 Points Clear in Front at the Summit After Shankland's Spot-Kick Overcomes Celtic
History wasn't made at Tynecastle, with it being far too early for such milestones. This game highlighted is that Heart of Midlothian have a genuine credible shot of disrupting Scottish football's four decade-long stranglehold. Make that an eight-point lead for Hearts over the visitors, whom they comfortably swatted aside. Try to chase them down.
Decisive Period in the Latter Period
A brief but pivotal phase were key, following a tight first half that was evenly matched. What was so notable after they extended their advantage was how stress-free the remainder of the game was for the home side. Kyziridis netted the second goal, cutting in from the left before blasting a strike past the motionless the goalkeeper. More joy followed in the stands, Dane Murray bringing down Braga for a penalty that Shankland tucked away. Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; challenges abound for him.
Supporters began celebrating after Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against Celtic.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic bounced back from the hosts' quick opening. Murray, who endured a torrid afternoon, turned the ball into his own net due to haste when trying to remove a delivery from Shankland. The Hoops worked their way into the game, leader Callum McGregor, finishing a Kieran Tierney pass for the equaliser.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The keeper Schwolow, who had denied from Nygren in the first half, kept out an Engels shot which deflected off Magnússon. Halkett stopped a Yamada attempt in the dying moments. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the clock ticked down. “We stand firm” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the stadium. It is becoming increasingly difficult the excitement.
- Full report will be available.
