The Tynecastle side Extend 8 Points Ahead Clear at the Pinnacle After Shankland's Penalty Kick Sees Off Celtic
We did not witness at Tynecastle, with it being far too early for such landmarks. This game highlighted is that the Edinburgh club have a genuine credible shot of breaking Scottish football's 40-year title duopoly. That advantage stands at eight points for Hearts over their rivals, whom they decisively beat. Try to chase them down.
Decisive Period in the Second Half
A brief but pivotal phase proved decisive, once the initial exchanges that was fiercely fought. It was remarkable after they took a 3-1 lead was how stress-free the rest of the game was for the home side. Alexandros Kyziridis doubled the lead, drifting inside before thumping a right-footed shot past the motionless Kasper Schmeichel. More joy followed in the stands, the Celtic defender upending Cláudio Braga for a foul that Shankland tucked away. Brendan Rodgers appeared frustrated; his problems are mounting.
The crowd erupted after Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against Celtic.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic had actually recovered well from the hosts' quick opening. The defender, who struggled throughout, conceded an own goal due to panic when trying to deal with a Shankland cross. Celtic edged their way back into the game, leader McGregor, scoring a Kieran Tierney cutback for the equaliser.
Stubborn Defence
The shot-stopper Alexander Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, parried an Engels shot which flicked off Magnússon. Craig Halkett blocked a Yamada attempt in added time. The hosts faced little else as the clock ticked down. “We stand firm” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the stadium. One cannot overlook the buzz.
- Detailed coverage coming soon.
