The Tynecastle side Extend Eight Points Ahead in Front at Top After Shankland's Spot-Kick Sees Off The Hoops
History wasn't made at Tynecastle Park, with it being far too early for such milestones. What this match did emphasise is that Heart of Midlothian are at least in with serious opportunity of ending Scottish football's long-standing title duopoly. That advantage stands at eight points for the maroon side over their rivals, whom they decisively beat. Catch them if you can.
Decisive Period in the Latter Period
A crucial three-minute spell were key, following a tight first half that was evenly matched. It was remarkable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how comfortable the rest of the game was for the home side. Alexandros Kyziridis scored Hearts’ second, drifting inside before blasting a strike past the stationary Kasper Schmeichel. More joy followed in the stands, the Celtic defender bringing down the Hearts player for a foul that Shankland converted. Brendan Rodgers appeared frustrated; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
Fans start to rejoice after Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against Celtic.
The Visitors' Fightback
Celtic bounced back from Hearts’ rapid start. Murray, who endured a torrid afternoon, scored an own goal due to panic when trying to deal with a delivery from Shankland. Celtic edged their way back into the game, leader Callum McGregor, turning home a Kieran Tierney cutback for the equaliser.
Stubborn Defence
The shot-stopper Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, kept out an Engels shot which deflected off Tómas Magnússon. Halkett thwarted a Shin Yamada attempt in stoppage time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the clock ticked down. “We stand firm” has become the favoured chant at Tynecastle. One cannot overlook the noise.
- Full report will be available.