Hearts Move 8 Points Clear Ahead at the Summit After Shankland's Penalty Kick Overcomes Celtic
History wasn't made at Tynecastle, with it being far too early for such landmarks. The encounter underlined is that Hearts have a genuine credible shot of disrupting Scottish football's long-standing dominance by two. Make that an eight-point lead for the maroon side over their rivals, whom they comfortably swatted aside. The challenge is now for others.
Turning Point in the After the Break
A crucial three-minute spell made the difference, after an opening period that was contested closely. It was remarkable after they extended their advantage was how stress-free the closing stages of the game was for the Tynecastle team. The Greek winger netted the second goal, drifting inside before thumping a right-footed shot past the motionless Kasper Schmeichel. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, the Celtic defender fouling Cláudio Braga for a foul that Shankland tucked away. Rodgers appeared frustrated; challenges abound for him.
Supporters began celebrating after Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against Celtic.
The Visitors' Fightback
Celtic bounced back from the hosts' quick opening. Dane Murray, who endured a torrid afternoon, turned the ball into his own net due to panic when trying to clear a delivery from Shankland. The Hoops worked their way into the game, the captain McGregor, turning home a Kieran Tierney pull-back for 1-1.
Solid Backline
The shot-stopper Alexander Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, blocked an Engels shot which deflected off Magnússon. Halkett stopped a Yamada attempt in stoppage time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the minutes passed. “We stand firm” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the ground. One cannot overlook the noise.
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