The Tynecastle side Push Eight Points Clear in Front at Top Following Shankland's Penalty Kick Defeats The Hoops
History wasn't made at Tynecastle, since it's far too early for such achievements. The encounter underlined is that Hearts possess a real serious opportunity of disrupting Scottish football's long-standing stranglehold. They now lead by eight points for Hearts over the visitors, whom they comfortably swatted aside. The challenge is now for others.
Key Moments in the Second Half
Three second-half minutes made the difference, after an opening period that was evenly matched. It was remarkable after they took a 3-1 lead was how comfortable the closing stages of the game was for the home side. Kyziridis doubled the lead, moving infield before firing a powerful effort past the static Kasper Schmeichel. Delight increased in the stands, Dane Murray bringing down Cláudio Braga for a penalty that the captain tucked away. Brendan Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; his problems are mounting.
Supporters began celebrating after Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against the opposition.
Celtic's Response
The away side responded positively from Hearts’ rapid start. The defender, who had a difficult day, turned the ball into his own net due to panic when trying to deal with a Shankland cross. Celtic edged their way back into the game, skipper McGregor, turning home a Tierney pass for 1-1.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The keeper Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, kept out an Arne Engels shot which deflected off Tómas Magnússon. Halkett stopped a Shin 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 popular anthem at the stadium. It is becoming increasingly difficult the buzz.
- Detailed coverage coming soon.
