Hearts Extend Eight Points Ahead Ahead at the Summit Following Shankland's Penalty Sees Off The Hoops
A historic moment didn't occur at their home ground, since it's far too early for such achievements. What this match did emphasise is that Hearts possess a real serious opportunity of disrupting Scottish football's long-standing title duopoly. That advantage stands at eight points for the team over Celtic, whom they decisively beat. Try to chase them down.
Key Moments in the Second Half
A crucial three-minute spell made the difference, after an opening period that was contested closely. It was remarkable after they took a 3-1 lead was how untroubled the closing stages of the game was for the hosts. Kyziridis scored Hearts’ second, moving infield before thumping a right-footed shot past the motionless the Celtic keeper. Delight increased in the stands, the Celtic defender bringing down Braga for a foul that Lawrence Shankland tucked away. The Celtic manager cut such a disconsolate figure; challenges abound for him.
Fans start to rejoice after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against Celtic.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic bounced back from an early setback. Murray, who endured a torrid afternoon, scored an own goal due to panic when trying to deal with a Shankland cross. Celtic edged their way back into the game, skipper McGregor, turning home a Kieran Tierney cutback for level terms.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The shot-stopper Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Nygren in the first half, blocked an Arne Engels shot which deflected off Magnússon. Craig Halkett blocked a Shin Yamada attempt in the dying moments. The hosts faced little else as the game concluded. “We stand firm” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the stadium. It's hard to ignore the noise.
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