The Jambos Move Eight Points Ahead Clear at the Pinnacle Following Shankland's Penalty Kick Defeats The Hoops
A historic moment didn't occur at Tynecastle, with it being far too early for such landmarks. What this match did emphasise is that Hearts have a genuine serious opportunity of ending Scottish football's 40-year title duopoly. Make that an eight-point lead for the maroon side over the visitors, whom they easily dispatched. Catch them if you can.
Decisive Period in the Latter Period
A crucial three-minute spell proved decisive, after an opening period that was evenly matched. The striking aspect after they extended their advantage was how untroubled the closing stages of the game was for the home side. Alexandros Kyziridis scored Hearts’ second, drifting inside before firing a powerful effort past the motionless the goalkeeper. Delight increased in the stands, Dane Murray bringing down Cláudio Braga for a spot-kick that Shankland tucked away. Rodgers looked dejected; challenges abound for him.
Supporters began celebrating after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against the opposition.
Celtic's Response
Celtic had actually recovered well from Hearts’ rapid start. Murray, who endured a torrid afternoon, scored an own goal due to haste when trying to clear a Shankland cross. The Hoops worked their way into the game, the captain Callum McGregor, finishing a Tierney pass for level terms.
Solid Backline
The Hearts goalkeeper Alexander Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, parried an Engels shot which deflected off Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett blocked a Yamada attempt in stoppage time. They comfortably saw out the game as the clock ticked down. “We shall not be moved” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the stadium. It's hard to ignore the excitement.
- Detailed coverage will be available.
