The Tynecastle side Move Eight Points Clear in Front at Top Following Shankland's Penalty Kick Sees Off Celtic
History wasn't made at Tynecastle Park, as it's far too early for such landmarks. This game highlighted is that the Edinburgh club possess a real strong chance of ending Scottish football's four decade-long dominance by two. Make that an eight-point lead for the maroon side over Celtic, whom they decisively beat. Catch them if you can.
Decisive Period in the Latter Period
A brief but pivotal phase made the difference, after an opening period that was contested closely. The striking aspect after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how stress-free the closing stages of the game was for the hosts. Kyziridis scored Hearts’ second, drifting inside before blasting a strike past the static Kasper Schmeichel. Delight increased in the stands, Dane Murray bringing down Braga for a spot-kick that Lawrence Shankland converted. Rodgers looked dejected; his problems are mounting.
The crowd erupted after Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against Celtic.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic had actually recovered well from an early setback. Dane Murray, who had a difficult day, scored an own goal due to confusion when trying to remove a ball into the box. Celtic edged their way back into the game, the captain McGregor, finishing a Kieran Tierney cutback for the equaliser.
Solid Backline
The keeper Alexander Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Nygren in the first half, parried an Engels shot which deflected off Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett blocked a Shin Yamada attempt in stoppage time. They comfortably saw out the game as the minutes passed. “We shall not be moved” has become the popular anthem at the stadium. It's hard to ignore the noise.
- Complete analysis to follow.