Hearts Move Eight Points Ahead Clear at the Pinnacle After Shankland's Spot-Kick Overcomes Celtic
We did not witness at Tynecastle, with it being far too early for such landmarks. What this match did emphasise is that Hearts have a genuine serious opportunity of ending Scottish football's four decade-long stranglehold. That advantage stands at eight points for the team over the visitors, whom they comfortably swatted aside. The challenge is now for others.
Key Moments in the Latter Period
A crucial three-minute spell made the difference, after an opening period that was contested closely. What was so notable after they took a 3-1 lead was how stress-free the rest of the game was for the hosts. Kyziridis netted the second goal, drifting inside before blasting a strike past the motionless Kasper Schmeichel. More joy followed in the stands, Dane Murray bringing down Braga for a spot-kick that the captain slotted home. The Celtic manager appeared frustrated; challenges abound for him.
The crowd erupted after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against Celtic.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic had actually recovered well from an early setback. Dane 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, skipper Callum McGregor, turning home a Tierney pull-back for the equaliser.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The shot-stopper Alexander Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Nygren in the first half, parried an Engels shot which touched Tómas Magnússon. Halkett blocked a Shin Yamada attempt in stoppage time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the game concluded. “We stand firm” has become the popular anthem at the ground. It is becoming increasingly difficult the excitement.
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