The Jambos Extend Eight Points Clear Ahead at Top Following Shankland's Spot-Kick Defeats Celtic
History wasn't made at Tynecastle Park, since it's far too early for such milestones. What this match did emphasise is that Hearts have a genuine credible shot of breaking Scottish football's long-standing title duopoly. They now lead by eight points for the maroon side over Celtic, whom they easily dispatched. Catch them if you can.
Key Moments in the Second Half
A brief but pivotal phase were key, once the initial exchanges that was fiercely fought. The striking aspect after they took a 3-1 lead was how untroubled the rest of the game was for the Tynecastle team. The Greek winger scored Hearts’ second, moving infield before thumping a right-footed shot past the motionless the goalkeeper. More joy followed in the stands, the Celtic defender bringing down Braga for a foul that Lawrence Shankland slotted home. Rodgers appeared frustrated; challenges abound for him.
Supporters began celebrating after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against Celtic.
Hoops' Reaction
The away side responded positively from the hosts' quick opening. Murray, who struggled throughout, turned the ball into his own net due to haste when trying to deal with a Shankland cross. They gradually fought back into the game, skipper Callum McGregor, finishing a Tierney cutback for 1-1.
Stubborn Defence
The Hearts goalkeeper Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, kept out an Engels shot which deflected off Magnússon. Craig Halkett blocked a Yamada attempt in the dying moments. They comfortably saw out the game as the clock ticked down. “We shall not be moved” has become the favoured chant at Tynecastle. It is becoming increasingly difficult the excitement.
- Detailed coverage coming soon.
