The Jambos Extend Eight Points Clear Clear at the Pinnacle After Shankland's Spot-Kick Sees Off Celtic
History wasn't made at Tynecastle, since it's far too early for such landmarks. The encounter underlined is that the Edinburgh club are at least in with serious opportunity of disrupting Scottish football's 40-year title duopoly. Make that an eight-point lead for Hearts over their rivals, whom they decisively beat. Try to chase them down.
Decisive Period in the After the Break
Three second-half minutes were key, following a tight first half that was contested closely. The striking aspect after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how untroubled the remainder of the game was for the hosts. Kyziridis netted the second goal, moving infield before blasting a strike past the static the Celtic keeper. More joy followed in the stands, the Celtic defender bringing down the Hearts player for a spot-kick that the captain converted. Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
The crowd erupted after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against Celtic.
Hoops' Reaction
The away side responded positively from Hearts’ rapid start. Dane Murray, who endured a torrid afternoon, turned the ball into his own net due to haste when trying to clear a ball into the box. Celtic edged their way back into the game, the captain McGregor, finishing a Kieran Tierney cutback for 1-1.
Stubborn Defence
The shot-stopper Alexander Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Nygren in the first half, blocked an Engels shot which touched Tómas Magnússon. Halkett stopped a Yamada attempt in the dying moments. They comfortably saw out the game as the minutes passed. “We remain resolute” has become the favoured chant at the ground. It is becoming increasingly difficult the noise.
- Detailed coverage to follow.
