Hearts Push Eight Points Ahead Clear at the Pinnacle After Shankland's Spot-Kick Overcomes The Hoops
We did not witness at Tynecastle, since it's far too early for such achievements. What this match did emphasise is that the Edinburgh club have a genuine serious opportunity of breaking Scottish football's 40-year title duopoly. Make that an eight-point lead for the maroon side over the visitors, whom they decisively beat. Catch them if you can.
Decisive Period in the Latter Period
A crucial three-minute spell were key, after an opening period that was fiercely fought. The striking aspect after they took a 3-1 lead was how untroubled the remainder of the game was for the hosts. Alexandros Kyziridis doubled the lead, drifting inside before firing a powerful effort past the stationary the Celtic keeper. Delight increased in the stands, Dane Murray bringing down the Hearts player for a foul that Shankland converted. Rodgers appeared frustrated; his problems are mounting.
Supporters began celebrating after Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against Celtic.
Celtic's Response
Celtic bounced back from an early setback. Murray, who had a difficult day, scored an own goal due to confusion when trying to remove a ball into the box. The Hoops worked their way into the game, leader Callum McGregor, turning home a Tierney pull-back for the equaliser.
Stubborn Defence
The keeper Schwolow, who had denied from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, parried an Arne Engels shot which touched Tómas Magnússon. Halkett blocked a Shin Yamada attempt in the dying moments. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the game concluded. “We shall not be moved” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the ground. It's hard to ignore the excitement.
- Full report coming soon.
