The Tynecastle side Move 8 Points Ahead Ahead at the Pinnacle Following Shankland's Penalty Kick Defeats The Hoops
A historic moment didn't occur at Tynecastle, with it being far too early for such achievements. What this match did emphasise is that Heart of Midlothian have a genuine strong chance of ending Scottish football's four decade-long title duopoly. They now lead by eight points for the team over the visitors, whom they comfortably swatted aside. Try to chase them down.
Turning Point in the Second Half
A crucial three-minute spell made the difference, once the initial exchanges that was fiercely fought. The striking aspect after they extended their advantage was how comfortable the closing stages of the game was for the home side. The Greek winger scored Hearts’ second, moving infield before blasting a strike past the motionless the Celtic keeper. More joy followed in the stands, Murray upending Braga for a spot-kick that the captain converted. Brendan Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; his problems are mounting.
The crowd erupted after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against the opposition.
The Visitors' Fightback
Celtic bounced back from an early setback. Murray, who had a difficult day, conceded an own goal due to haste when trying to clear a delivery from Shankland. Celtic edged their way back into the game, the captain McGregor, finishing a Tierney cutback for the equaliser.
Solid Backline
The shot-stopper Alexander Schwolow, who had denied from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, blocked an Arne Engels shot which flicked off Magnússon. Craig Halkett stopped a Yamada attempt in added time. They comfortably saw out the game as the clock ticked down. “We remain resolute” has become the popular anthem at Tynecastle. One cannot overlook the buzz.
- Full report coming soon.
