The Tynecastle side Move 8 Points Ahead at the Pinnacle After Shankland's Spot-Kick Sees Off Celtic
History wasn't made at their home ground, with it being far too early for such landmarks. What this match did emphasise is that Heart of Midlothian possess a real serious opportunity of disrupting Scottish football's 40-year dominance by two. Make that an eight-point lead for the maroon side over Celtic, whom they decisively beat. The challenge is now for others.
Key Moments in the After the Break
A brief but pivotal phase proved decisive, after an opening period that was contested closely. It was remarkable after they extended their advantage was how untroubled the remainder of the game was for the Tynecastle team. The Greek winger scored Hearts’ second, cutting in from the left before thumping a right-footed shot past the motionless Kasper Schmeichel. Delight increased in the stands, Dane Murray upending Cláudio Braga for a spot-kick that Lawrence Shankland converted. Brendan Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
Fans start to rejoice after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against Celtic.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic had actually recovered well from Hearts’ rapid start. Dane Murray, who endured a torrid afternoon, scored an own goal due to confusion when trying to deal with a ball into the box. The Hoops worked their way into the game, skipper McGregor, scoring a Tierney pull-back for 1-1.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The shot-stopper Alexander Schwolow, who had denied from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, parried an Arne Engels shot which deflected off Magnússon. Craig Halkett stopped a Yamada attempt in the dying moments. The hosts faced little else as the game concluded. “We remain resolute” has become the popular anthem at the stadium. It is becoming increasingly difficult the buzz.
- Full report to follow.
