Hearts Push Eight Points Ahead Ahead at the Pinnacle Following Shankland's Penalty Sees Off Celtic
History wasn't made at Tynecastle, with it being far too early for such milestones. What this match did emphasise is that the Edinburgh club have a genuine serious opportunity of disrupting Scottish football's 40-year title duopoly. Make that an eight-point lead for Hearts over Celtic, whom they decisively beat. Try to chase them down.
Turning Point in the Second Half
Three second-half minutes were key, following a tight first half that was fiercely fought. It was remarkable after they took a 3-1 lead was how comfortable the rest of the game was for the Tynecastle team. Kyziridis doubled the lead, cutting in from the left before thumping a right-footed shot past the stationary the goalkeeper. More joy followed in the stands, the Celtic defender fouling the Hearts player for a spot-kick that the captain slotted home. Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; challenges abound for him.
The crowd erupted after Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against the opposition.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic had actually recovered well from an early setback. Dane Murray, who struggled throughout, scored an own goal due to panic when trying to clear a Shankland cross. Celtic edged their way back into the game, leader Callum McGregor, scoring a Kieran Tierney pass for 1-1.
Stubborn Defence
The keeper Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, kept out an Arne Engels shot which touched Tómas Magnússon. Halkett blocked a Yamada attempt in the dying moments. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the clock ticked down. “We remain resolute” has become the favoured chant at the stadium. One cannot overlook the excitement.
- Detailed coverage to follow.
