The Jambos Push Eight Points Ahead in Front at the Summit After Shankland's Penalty Overcomes The Hoops
We did not witness at their home ground, since it's far too early for such landmarks. What this match did emphasise is that the Edinburgh club possess a real serious opportunity of ending Scottish football's 40-year title duopoly. That advantage stands at eight points for Hearts over the visitors, whom they decisively beat. The challenge is now for others.
Key Moments in the Second Half
A brief but pivotal phase were key, once the initial exchanges that was contested closely. It was remarkable after they took a 3-1 lead was how stress-free the closing stages of the game was for the home side. Alexandros Kyziridis scored Hearts’ second, moving infield before thumping a right-footed shot past the static Kasper Schmeichel. More joy followed in the stands, the Celtic defender bringing down the Hearts player for a foul that Shankland tucked away. Brendan Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; challenges abound for him.
Fans start to rejoice after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against Celtic.
Celtic's Response
The away side responded positively from Hearts’ rapid start. Dane Murray, who endured a torrid afternoon, conceded an own goal due to confusion when trying to clear a delivery from Shankland. They gradually fought back into the game, the captain Callum McGregor, turning home a Kieran Tierney cutback for 1-1.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The shot-stopper Schwolow, who had denied from Nygren in the first half, kept out an Arne Engels shot which deflected off Magnússon. Craig Halkett thwarted a Shin Yamada attempt in the dying moments. They comfortably saw out the game as the clock ticked down. “We remain resolute” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the ground. It is becoming increasingly difficult the noise.
- Detailed coverage coming soon.
