Hearts Move 8 Points Ahead in Front at the Pinnacle After Shankland's Penalty Kick Sees Off The Hoops
History wasn't made at Tynecastle Park, with it being far too early for such achievements. What this match did emphasise is that Heart of Midlothian are at least in with strong chance of breaking Scottish football's long-standing stranglehold. They now lead by eight points for the maroon side over Celtic, whom they decisively beat. The challenge is now for others.
Key Moments in the Second Half
A brief but pivotal phase made the difference, once the initial exchanges that was contested closely. The striking aspect after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how comfortable the rest of the game was for the hosts. Alexandros Kyziridis netted the second goal, drifting inside before firing a powerful effort past the stationary the Celtic keeper. Delight increased in the stands, Murray upending Braga for a spot-kick that Lawrence Shankland converted. Brendan Rodgers looked dejected; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
Fans start to rejoice after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against the opposition.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic had actually recovered well from the hosts' quick opening. Dane Murray, who had a difficult day, scored an own goal due to haste when trying to deal with a ball into the box. They gradually fought back into the game, leader McGregor, turning home a Kieran Tierney cutback for level terms.
Solid Backline
The keeper Alexander Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, parried an Engels shot which deflected off Magnússon. Halkett stopped a Shin Yamada attempt in added time. The hosts faced little else as the minutes passed. “We stand firm” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at Tynecastle. It's hard to ignore the noise.
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