The Tynecastle side Push 8 Points Ahead in Front at the Pinnacle Following Shankland's Penalty Kick Sees Off The Hoops
History wasn't made at their home ground, since it's far too early for such achievements. What this match did emphasise is that Heart of Midlothian have a genuine credible shot of ending Scottish football's long-standing dominance by two. Make that an eight-point lead for the maroon side over their rivals, whom they easily dispatched. Catch them if you can.
Decisive Period in the After the Break
Three second-half minutes were key, following a tight first half that was fiercely fought. What was so notable after they extended their advantage was how comfortable the remainder of the game was for the hosts. The Greek winger netted the second goal, cutting in from the left before blasting a strike past the static the Celtic keeper. Delight increased in the stands, Murray fouling the Hearts player for a spot-kick that Shankland tucked away. The Celtic manager looked dejected; challenges abound for him.
Supporters began celebrating after Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against Celtic.
Celtic's Response
Celtic bounced back from Hearts’ rapid start. The defender, who endured a torrid afternoon, scored an own goal due to haste when trying to clear a Shankland cross. They gradually fought back into the game, skipper McGregor, finishing a Tierney pull-back for level terms.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The keeper Schwolow, who had denied from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, kept out an Engels shot which flicked off Tómas Magnússon. Halkett stopped a Shin Yamada attempt in stoppage time. They comfortably saw out the game as the minutes passed. “We remain resolute” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at Tynecastle. It is becoming increasingly difficult the excitement.
- Detailed coverage coming soon.
