The Jambos Push Eight Points in Front at the Pinnacle Following Shankland's Spot-Kick Sees Off The Hoops
History wasn't made at Tynecastle Park, since it's far too early for such achievements. What this match did emphasise is that Heart of Midlothian possess a real strong chance of disrupting Scottish football's four decade-long stranglehold. Make that an eight-point lead for the maroon side over their rivals, whom they easily dispatched. Try to chase them down.
Turning Point in the After the Break
Three second-half minutes were key, following a tight first half that was evenly matched. What was so notable after they took a 3-1 lead was how stress-free the remainder of the game was for the home side. Alexandros Kyziridis doubled the lead, moving infield before thumping a right-footed shot past the stationary the Celtic keeper. Delight increased in the stands, Dane Murray bringing down the Hearts player for a foul that Lawrence Shankland converted. Rodgers appeared frustrated; challenges abound for him.
Supporters began celebrating after Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against Celtic.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic bounced back from Hearts’ rapid start. Dane Murray, who struggled throughout, conceded an own goal due to haste when trying to clear a Shankland cross. Celtic edged their way back into the game, leader McGregor, scoring a Tierney pass for the equaliser.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The shot-stopper Alexander Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Nygren in the first half, parried an Engels shot which flicked off Magnússon. Craig Halkett blocked a Yamada attempt in stoppage time. They comfortably saw out the game as the game concluded. “We remain resolute” has become the popular anthem at the stadium. It is becoming increasingly difficult the excitement.
- Detailed coverage to follow.
