The Jambos Push 8 Points Ahead Ahead at the Pinnacle After Shankland's Penalty Kick Overcomes The Hoops
A historic moment didn't occur at Tynecastle Park, with it being far too early for such landmarks. What this match did emphasise is that Hearts possess a real strong chance of disrupting Scottish football's 40-year dominance by two. They now lead by eight points for the team over the visitors, whom they decisively beat. Catch them if you can.
Turning Point in the After the Break
Three second-half minutes were key, after an opening period that was contested closely. What was so notable after they extended their advantage was how comfortable the closing stages of the game was for the Tynecastle team. The Greek winger scored Hearts’ second, moving infield before firing a powerful effort past the stationary Kasper Schmeichel. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Murray fouling Cláudio Braga for a spot-kick that Shankland slotted home. Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; his problems are mounting.
Supporters began celebrating after Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against the opposition.
The Visitors' Fightback
Celtic had actually recovered well from the hosts' quick opening. Murray, who endured a torrid afternoon, turned the ball into his own net due to confusion when trying to clear a Shankland cross. The Hoops worked their way into the game, the captain Callum McGregor, scoring a Kieran Tierney pull-back for the equaliser.
Solid Backline
The Hearts goalkeeper Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Nygren in the first half, kept out an Arne Engels shot which touched Magnússon. Halkett stopped a Shin Yamada attempt in added time. The hosts faced little else as the clock ticked down. “We remain resolute” has become the popular anthem at Tynecastle. It's hard to ignore the buzz.
- Full report coming soon.
