Hearts Push Eight Points Ahead Clear at the Pinnacle After Shankland's Spot-Kick Sees Off The Hoops
History wasn't made at Tynecastle Park, since it's far too early for such landmarks. This game highlighted is that Hearts possess a real credible shot of breaking Scottish football's 40-year title duopoly. They now lead by eight points for Hearts over Celtic, whom they easily dispatched. Catch them if you can.
Key Moments in the After the Break
A crucial three-minute spell were key, following a tight first half that was fiercely fought. What was so notable after they took a 3-1 lead was how stress-free the remainder of the game was for the hosts. The Greek winger scored Hearts’ second, moving infield before firing a powerful effort past the static the Celtic keeper. Delight increased in the stands, Murray upending Cláudio Braga for a foul that the captain tucked away. Brendan Rodgers appeared frustrated; his problems are mounting.
Fans start to rejoice after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against the opposition.
Celtic's Response
Celtic bounced back from Hearts’ rapid start. Dane Murray, who had a difficult day, turned the ball into his own net due to confusion when trying to clear a delivery from Shankland. The Hoops worked their way into the game, the captain McGregor, turning home a Kieran Tierney pass for level terms.
Solid Backline
The Hearts goalkeeper Alexander Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, kept out an Engels shot which flicked off Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett thwarted a Yamada attempt in stoppage time. They comfortably saw out the game as the game concluded. “We remain resolute” has become the favoured chant at the stadium. One cannot overlook the noise.
- Full report coming soon.
