The Tynecastle side Extend Eight Points Clear Clear at Top Following Shankland's Penalty Overcomes Celtic
We did not witness at Tynecastle, with it being far too early for such landmarks. The encounter underlined is that Hearts possess a real credible shot of ending Scottish football's 40-year title duopoly. That advantage stands at eight points for the team over Celtic, whom they decisively beat. The challenge is now for others.
Decisive Period in the Second Half
A crucial three-minute spell proved decisive, once the initial exchanges that was contested closely. What was so notable 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, drifting inside before firing a powerful effort past the motionless Kasper Schmeichel. Delight increased in the stands, the Celtic defender bringing down Cláudio Braga for a spot-kick that the captain converted. The Celtic manager appeared frustrated; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
The crowd erupted after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against the opposition.
Hoops' Reaction
The away side responded positively from an early setback. Dane Murray, who struggled throughout, conceded an own goal due to confusion when trying to remove a delivery from Shankland. Celtic edged their way back into the game, skipper Callum McGregor, scoring a Tierney pull-back for level terms.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The Hearts goalkeeper Alexander Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, kept out an Arne Engels shot which touched Magnússon. Craig Halkett thwarted a Yamada attempt in stoppage time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the minutes passed. “We shall not be moved” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at Tynecastle. It is becoming increasingly difficult the buzz.
- Detailed coverage will be available.
