Hearts Move Eight Points Ahead in Front at the Pinnacle After Shankland's Spot-Kick Defeats Celtic
We did not witness at Tynecastle, with it being far too early for such landmarks. This game highlighted is that the Edinburgh club possess a real credible shot of ending Scottish football's four decade-long stranglehold. That advantage stands at eight points for the team over their rivals, whom they decisively beat. Try to chase them down.
Key Moments in the After the Break
A crucial three-minute spell proved decisive, once the initial exchanges that was contested closely. It was remarkable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how comfortable the remainder of the game was for the Tynecastle team. The Greek winger scored Hearts’ second, moving infield before blasting a strike past the motionless the Celtic keeper. More joy followed in the stands, the Celtic defender bringing down Cláudio Braga for a penalty that the captain slotted home. Rodgers looked dejected; challenges abound for him.
The crowd erupted after Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against Celtic.
Celtic's Response
The away side responded positively from the hosts' quick opening. Murray, who struggled throughout, turned the ball into his own net due to panic when trying to clear a delivery from Shankland. The Hoops worked their way into the game, leader Callum McGregor, scoring a Kieran Tierney pass for level terms.
Stubborn Defence
The Hearts goalkeeper Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Nygren in the first half, parried an Engels shot which touched Tómas Magnússon. Halkett stopped a Yamada attempt in added time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the minutes passed. “We remain resolute” has become the favoured chant at Tynecastle. It's hard to ignore the excitement.
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