Hearts Extend 8 Points Clear at Top Following Shankland's Penalty Kick Sees Off Celtic
A historic moment didn't occur at Tynecastle, since it's far too early for such milestones. What this match did emphasise is that Heart of Midlothian possess a real credible shot of disrupting Scottish football's four decade-long title duopoly. Make that an eight-point lead for the maroon side over their rivals, whom they comfortably swatted aside. Catch them if you can.
Key Moments in the Second Half
A brief but pivotal phase made the difference, once the initial exchanges 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 netted the second goal, cutting in from the left before thumping a right-footed shot past the motionless the goalkeeper. More joy followed in the stands, Murray fouling the Hearts player for a foul that Shankland slotted home. Rodgers looked dejected; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
Supporters began celebrating after Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against the opposition.
The Visitors' Fightback
Celtic had actually recovered well from the hosts' quick opening. The defender, who endured a torrid afternoon, scored an own goal due to confusion when trying to deal with a ball into the box. Celtic edged their way back into the game, skipper Callum McGregor, scoring a Tierney cutback for level terms.
Stubborn Defence
The shot-stopper Alexander Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Nygren in the first half, blocked an Arne Engels shot which deflected off MagnĂșsson. Craig Halkett stopped a Shin Yamada attempt in added time. The hosts faced little else as the game concluded. âWe remain resoluteâ has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at Tynecastle. It is becoming increasingly difficult the noise.
- Full report coming soon.
