The Tynecastle side Extend 8 Points in Front at Top Following Shankland's Penalty Kick Defeats Celtic
A historic moment didn't occur at Tynecastle Park, as it's far too early for such landmarks. What this match did emphasise is that Hearts have a genuine credible shot of breaking Scottish football's 40-year dominance by two. They now lead by eight points for the maroon side over Celtic, whom they decisively beat. The challenge is now for others.
Turning Point in the Second Half
Three second-half minutes were key, once the initial exchanges that was contested closely. The striking aspect after they took a 3-1 lead was how stress-free the closing stages of the game was for the hosts. Kyziridis doubled the lead, moving infield before blasting a strike past the stationary Kasper Schmeichel. Delight increased in the stands, Dane Murray bringing down the Hearts player for a foul that Shankland slotted home. Rodgers looked dejected; his problems are mounting.
Supporters began celebrating after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against the opposition.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic bounced back from an early setback. Dane Murray, who had a difficult day, scored an own goal due to haste when trying to remove a delivery from Shankland. They gradually fought back into the game, leader Callum McGregor, finishing a Kieran Tierney pull-back for 1-1.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The Hearts goalkeeper Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Nygren in the first half, kept out an Engels shot which flicked off Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett blocked a Yamada attempt in added time. They comfortably saw out the game as the minutes passed. “We stand firm” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the stadium. One cannot overlook the noise.
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