The Tynecastle side Extend Eight Points Clear Clear at Top After Shankland's Spot-Kick Overcomes Celtic
We did not witness at Tynecastle, as it's far too early for such achievements. What this match did emphasise is that Hearts possess a real credible shot of breaking Scottish football's 40-year title duopoly. They now lead by eight points for the team over their rivals, whom they comfortably swatted aside. The challenge is now for others.
Decisive Period in the Second Half
A crucial three-minute spell were key, after an opening period that was fiercely fought. What was so notable after they took a 3-1 lead was how untroubled the rest of the game was for the home side. Alexandros Kyziridis doubled the lead, moving infield before firing a powerful effort past the stationary the Celtic keeper. Delight increased in the stands, Dane Murray bringing down Braga for a penalty that Lawrence Shankland slotted home. The Celtic manager looked dejected; challenges abound for him.
Fans start to rejoice after Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against Celtic.
Hoops' Reaction
The away side responded positively from the hosts' quick opening. Dane Murray, who struggled throughout, conceded an own goal due to panic when trying to deal with a ball into the box. The Hoops worked their way into the game, the captain McGregor, turning home a Tierney cutback for the equaliser.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The shot-stopper Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Nygren in the first half, kept out 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 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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