The Jambos Push 8 Points Ahead in Front at Top After Shankland's Spot-Kick Sees Off The Hoops
History wasn't made at Tynecastle, with it being far too early for such milestones. What this match did emphasise is that Hearts possess a real serious opportunity of disrupting Scottish football's four decade-long dominance by two. They now lead by eight points for Hearts over Celtic, whom they comfortably swatted aside. The challenge is now for others.
Decisive Period in the After the Break
A brief but pivotal phase made the difference, once the initial exchanges that was fiercely fought. It was remarkable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how untroubled the rest of the game was for the hosts. Alexandros Kyziridis netted the second goal, cutting in from the left before firing a powerful effort past the motionless the Celtic keeper. Delight increased in the stands, Murray upending Braga for a spot-kick that Shankland slotted home. The Celtic manager looked dejected; challenges abound for him.
Fans start to rejoice after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against the opposition.
The Visitors' Fightback
Celtic had actually recovered well from Hearts’ rapid start. The defender, who endured a torrid afternoon, scored an own goal due to panic when trying to deal with a delivery from Shankland. They gradually fought back into the game, skipper Callum McGregor, finishing a Tierney pull-back for level terms.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The Hearts goalkeeper Alexander Schwolow, who had denied from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, blocked an Engels shot which touched Tómas Magnússon. Halkett thwarted a Yamada attempt in added time. The hosts faced little else as the game concluded. “We shall not be moved” has become the favoured chant at the ground. One cannot overlook the noise.
- Full report to follow.
