Hearts Push 8 Points Clear at the Pinnacle Following Shankland's Penalty Kick Defeats Celtic
History wasn't made at Tynecastle, as it's far too early for such achievements. What this match did emphasise is that Heart of Midlothian are at least in with strong chance of breaking Scottish football's long-standing stranglehold. Make that an eight-point lead for Hearts over Celtic, whom they easily dispatched. Try to chase them down.
Turning Point in the Latter Period
Three second-half minutes proved decisive, after an opening period that was fiercely fought. What was so notable after they extended their advantage was how untroubled the remainder of the game was for the Tynecastle team. The Greek winger doubled the lead, drifting inside before firing a powerful effort past the motionless the goalkeeper. Delight increased in the stands, Murray upending ClĂĄudio Braga for a spot-kick that the captain slotted home. Brendan Rodgers appeared frustrated; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
Supporters began celebrating after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against the opposition.
The Visitors' Fightback
The away side responded positively from an early setback. Murray, who struggled throughout, scored an own goal due to panic when trying to deal with a delivery from Shankland. Celtic edged their way back into the game, the captain Callum McGregor, finishing a Kieran Tierney cutback for level terms.
Stubborn Defence
The keeper Schwolow, who had denied from Nygren in the first half, blocked an Arne Engels shot which touched TĂłmas MagnĂșsson. Craig Halkett blocked a Shin Yamada attempt in added time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the game concluded. âWe remain resoluteâ has become the favoured chant at the stadium. One cannot overlook the noise.
- Detailed coverage to follow.
