The Tynecastle side Extend Eight Points Ahead Ahead at the Summit Following Shankland's Penalty Kick Sees Off Celtic
We did not witness at their home ground, since it's far too early for such landmarks. What this match did emphasise is that Heart of Midlothian possess a real serious opportunity of ending Scottish football's four decade-long dominance by two. They now lead by eight points for the team over Celtic, whom they easily dispatched. Try to chase them down.
Key Moments in the After the Break
Three second-half minutes proved decisive, once the initial exchanges that was contested closely. The striking aspect after they extended their advantage was how stress-free the rest of the game was for the Tynecastle team. Kyziridis doubled the lead, cutting in from the left before firing a powerful effort past the static the Celtic keeper. Delight increased in the stands, Murray upending Cláudio Braga for a penalty that the captain slotted home. Brendan Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; challenges abound for him.
Supporters began celebrating after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against the opposition.
The Visitors' Fightback
The away side responded positively from the hosts' quick opening. Dane Murray, who struggled throughout, scored an own goal due to haste when trying to deal with a delivery from Shankland. Celtic edged their way back into the game, leader Callum McGregor, finishing a Kieran Tierney pull-back for level terms.
Stubborn Defence
The keeper Alexander Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, blocked an Arne Engels shot which touched Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett thwarted a Yamada attempt in stoppage 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.
- Detailed coverage coming soon.
