The Jambos Extend 8 Points Ahead at Top Following Shankland's Penalty Overcomes Celtic
History wasn't made at Tynecastle, with it being far too early for such landmarks. The encounter underlined is that the Edinburgh club possess a real strong chance of breaking Scottish football's 40-year title duopoly. That advantage stands at eight points for the maroon side over the visitors, whom they comfortably swatted aside. Try to chase them down.
Key Moments in the Latter Period
Three second-half minutes made the difference, following a tight first half that was evenly matched. What was so notable after they extended their advantage was how stress-free the closing stages of the game was for the Tynecastle team. The Greek winger scored Hearts’ second, cutting in from the left before firing a powerful effort past the stationary the Celtic keeper. More joy followed in the stands, Dane Murray upending Braga for a foul that the captain slotted home. Brendan Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; his problems are mounting.
The crowd erupted after Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against the opposition.
Celtic's Response
The away side responded positively from an early setback. The defender, who struggled throughout, turned the ball into his own net due to haste when trying to clear a delivery from Shankland. The Hoops worked their way into the game, the captain Callum McGregor, scoring a Kieran Tierney pass for level terms.
Solid Backline
The Hearts goalkeeper Alexander Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Nygren in the first half, kept out an Engels shot which touched Tómas Magnússon. Halkett blocked a Shin Yamada attempt in added time. The hosts faced little else as the game concluded. “We stand firm” has become the favoured chant at the stadium. It is becoming increasingly difficult the excitement.
- Complete analysis will be available.
