Hearts Push 8 Points Clear Ahead at the Pinnacle Following Shankland's Spot-Kick Overcomes Celtic
A historic moment didn't occur at Tynecastle Park, with it being far too early for such achievements. The encounter underlined is that the Edinburgh club possess a real serious opportunity of breaking Scottish football's long-standing stranglehold. That advantage stands at eight points for the maroon side over the visitors, whom they comfortably swatted aside. Try to chase them down.
Turning Point in the Latter Period
A brief but pivotal phase made the difference, after an opening period that was evenly matched. It was remarkable after they took a 3-1 lead was how untroubled the remainder of the game was for the Tynecastle team. Kyziridis doubled the lead, drifting inside before thumping a right-footed shot past the stationary Kasper Schmeichel. Delight increased in the stands, Murray bringing down the Hearts player for a foul that the captain slotted home. The Celtic manager cut such a disconsolate figure; challenges abound for him.
Fans start to rejoice after Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against the opposition.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic bounced back from the hosts' quick opening. The defender, who endured a torrid afternoon, conceded an own goal due to confusion when trying to deal with a ball into the box. The Hoops worked their way into the game, leader Callum McGregor, turning home a Tierney cutback for level terms.
Solid Backline
The Hearts goalkeeper Alexander Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, blocked an Arne 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 remain resolute” has become the popular anthem at the ground. It's hard to ignore the buzz.
- Full report will be available.
