The Jambos Extend 8 Points in Front at the Summit Following Shankland's Penalty Kick Overcomes The Hoops
We did not witness at Tynecastle Park, as it's far too early for such achievements. What this match did emphasise is that Heart of Midlothian possess a real serious opportunity of disrupting Scottish football's long-standing stranglehold. That advantage stands at eight points for the maroon side over Celtic, whom they easily dispatched. Try to chase them down.
Decisive Period in the Latter Period
A crucial three-minute spell made the difference, once the initial exchanges that was contested closely. What was so notable after they extended their advantage was how comfortable the closing stages of the game was for the Tynecastle team. Alexandros Kyziridis scored Hearts’ second, cutting in from the left before thumping a right-footed shot past the static the Celtic keeper. More joy followed in the stands, Murray bringing down the Hearts player for a penalty that Shankland slotted home. Brendan Rodgers looked dejected; challenges abound for him.
Supporters began celebrating after Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against Celtic.
Celtic's Response
The away side responded positively from an early setback. Dane Murray, who had a difficult day, conceded an own goal due to confusion when trying to remove a ball into the box. The Hoops worked their way into the game, skipper McGregor, turning home a Kieran Tierney cutback for level terms.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The Hearts goalkeeper Alexander Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, blocked an Engels shot which flicked off Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett blocked a Yamada attempt in stoppage time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the clock ticked down. “We shall not be moved” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at Tynecastle. It's hard to ignore the buzz.
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