The Tynecastle side Push Eight Points Clear at the Pinnacle Following Shankland's Penalty Kick Overcomes The Hoops
A historic moment didn't occur at Tynecastle Park, as it's far too early for such milestones. This game highlighted is that Heart of Midlothian are at least in with serious opportunity of disrupting Scottish football's 40-year title duopoly. That advantage stands at eight points for the maroon side over the visitors, whom they comfortably swatted aside. Catch them if you can.
Key Moments in the Latter Period
A crucial three-minute spell proved decisive, after an opening period that was fiercely fought. What was so notable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how comfortable the remainder of the game was for the Tynecastle team. The Greek winger doubled the lead, moving infield before firing a powerful effort past the motionless the Celtic keeper. More joy followed in the stands, Dane Murray upending the Hearts player for a penalty that the captain tucked away. The Celtic manager looked dejected; challenges abound for him.
The crowd erupted after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against Celtic.
The Visitors' Fightback
Celtic bounced back from an early setback. The defender, who endured a torrid afternoon, conceded an own goal due to haste when trying to remove a Shankland cross. Celtic edged their way back into the game, leader Callum McGregor, scoring a Kieran Tierney pull-back for the equaliser.
Solid Backline
The Hearts goalkeeper Alexander Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Nygren in the first half, kept out an Engels shot which touched Magnússon. Craig Halkett blocked a Shin Yamada attempt in the dying moments. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the minutes passed. “We stand firm” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the stadium. One cannot overlook the buzz.
- Detailed coverage to follow.
