The Tynecastle side Move Eight Points in Front at the Pinnacle After Shankland's Penalty Kick Overcomes Celtic
A historic moment didn't occur at Tynecastle, since it's far too early for such milestones. What this match did emphasise is that Heart of Midlothian have a genuine credible shot of disrupting Scottish football's 40-year title duopoly. Make that an eight-point lead for Hearts over their rivals, whom they decisively beat. The challenge is now for others.
Decisive Period in the Second Half
A crucial three-minute spell were key, once the initial exchanges that was contested closely. What was so notable after they took a 3-1 lead was how untroubled the closing stages of the game was for the Tynecastle team. Kyziridis doubled the lead, cutting in from the left before blasting a strike past the static Kasper Schmeichel. Delight increased in the stands, the Celtic defender bringing down Braga for a penalty that the captain converted. Brendan Rodgers looked dejected; challenges abound for him.
Fans start to rejoice after Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against Celtic.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic had actually recovered well from Hearts’ rapid start. Murray, who endured a torrid afternoon, turned the ball into his own net due to panic when trying to clear a ball into the box. The Hoops worked their way into the game, leader Callum McGregor, finishing a Tierney cutback for level terms.
Stubborn Defence
The keeper Alexander Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Nygren in the first half, blocked an Engels shot which touched Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett thwarted a Shin Yamada attempt in the dying moments. They comfortably saw out the game as the game concluded. “We stand firm” has become the favoured chant at the stadium. One cannot overlook the buzz.
- Detailed coverage to follow.
