The Jambos Extend Eight Points Clear at the Summit Following Shankland's Spot-Kick Sees Off Celtic
We did not witness at Tynecastle, as it's far too early for such landmarks. The encounter underlined is that Heart of Midlothian have a genuine strong chance of breaking Scottish football's 40-year stranglehold. That advantage stands at eight points for the team over Celtic, whom they easily dispatched. Try to chase them down.
Turning Point in the Latter Period
A brief but pivotal phase were key, following a tight first half that was evenly matched. The striking aspect after they took a 3-1 lead was how untroubled the rest of the game was for the home side. Alexandros Kyziridis scored Hearts’ second, moving infield before firing a powerful effort past the motionless the Celtic keeper. More joy followed in the stands, Dane Murray upending Cláudio Braga for a foul that Shankland converted. Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
The crowd erupted after Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against Celtic.
Celtic's Response
The away side responded positively from Hearts’ rapid start. Murray, who endured a torrid afternoon, scored an own goal due to confusion when trying to deal with a delivery from Shankland. Celtic edged their way back into the game, leader McGregor, turning home a Tierney pull-back for level terms.
Solid Backline
The shot-stopper Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Nygren in the first half, kept out an Arne Engels shot which touched Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett stopped a Yamada attempt in stoppage time. They comfortably saw out the game as the game concluded. “We shall not be moved” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the ground. It is becoming increasingly difficult the buzz.
- Detailed coverage will be available.