Hearts Move Eight Points Clear Ahead at the Pinnacle After Shankland's Penalty Kick Overcomes Celtic
A historic moment didn't occur at Tynecastle Park, with it being far too early for such milestones. What this match did emphasise is that the Edinburgh club have a genuine credible shot of disrupting Scottish football's four decade-long dominance by two. That advantage stands at eight points for Hearts over the visitors, whom they decisively beat. Catch them if you can.
Decisive Period in the Second Half
A brief but pivotal phase made the difference, once the initial exchanges that was fiercely fought. It was remarkable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how untroubled the closing stages of the game was for the hosts. Alexandros Kyziridis doubled the lead, cutting in from the left before blasting a strike past the static Kasper Schmeichel. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Dane Murray fouling Cláudio Braga for a foul that the captain slotted home. Rodgers appeared frustrated; challenges abound for him.
The crowd erupted after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against Celtic.
Celtic's Response
Celtic bounced back from Hearts’ rapid start. Dane Murray, who endured a torrid afternoon, conceded an own goal due to confusion when trying to deal with a ball into the box. The Hoops worked their way into the game, leader Callum McGregor, finishing a Tierney pass for level terms.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The shot-stopper Schwolow, who had denied from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, blocked an Engels shot which deflected off Magnússon. Craig Halkett blocked a Yamada attempt in the dying moments. They comfortably saw out the game 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.
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