Hearts Move 8 Points in Front at the Pinnacle Following Shankland's Penalty Overcomes Celtic
History wasn't made at their home ground, with it being far too early for such achievements. The encounter underlined is that Hearts have a genuine strong chance of breaking Scottish football's long-standing stranglehold. Make that an eight-point lead for Hearts over their rivals, whom they easily dispatched. Catch them if you can.
Turning Point in the Latter Period
A brief but pivotal phase made the difference, once the initial exchanges that was fiercely fought. What was so notable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how comfortable the closing stages of the game was for the home side. The Greek winger doubled the lead, drifting inside before thumping a right-footed shot past the motionless Kasper Schmeichel. Delight increased in the stands, Dane Murray fouling Braga for a spot-kick that Shankland converted. Rodgers looked dejected; his problems are mounting.
Fans start to rejoice after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against Celtic.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic had actually recovered well 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, finishing a Tierney pass for level terms.
Stubborn Defence
The shot-stopper Alexander Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Nygren in the first half, kept out an Engels shot which deflected off Magnússon. Craig Halkett stopped a Shin Yamada attempt in added time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the game concluded. “We remain resolute” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the stadium. One cannot overlook the excitement.
- Full report will be available.