The Tynecastle side Move Eight Points Clear Clear at the Pinnacle After Shankland's Spot-Kick Sees Off Celtic
A historic moment didn't occur at their home ground, as it's far too early for such milestones. What this match did emphasise is that Hearts have a genuine strong chance of breaking Scottish football's long-standing stranglehold. That advantage stands at eight points for the maroon side over their rivals, whom they comfortably swatted aside. The challenge is now for others.
Decisive Period in the After the Break
A crucial three-minute spell were key, following a tight first half that was evenly matched. What was so notable after they extended their advantage was how stress-free the rest of the game was for the Tynecastle team. Kyziridis doubled the lead, drifting inside before blasting a strike past the stationary Kasper Schmeichel. More joy followed in the stands, Murray upending Braga for a spot-kick that the captain slotted home. Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; challenges abound for him.
The crowd erupted after Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against the opposition.
The Visitors' Fightback
Celtic bounced back from Hearts’ rapid start. Dane Murray, who struggled throughout, scored an own goal due to panic when trying to clear a Shankland cross. The Hoops worked their way into the game, leader Callum McGregor, turning home a Tierney pass for the equaliser.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The shot-stopper Alexander Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Nygren in the first half, kept out an Engels shot which flicked off Tómas Magnússon. Halkett blocked a Yamada attempt in the dying moments. They comfortably saw out the game as the minutes passed. “We shall not be moved” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the stadium. It is becoming increasingly difficult the noise.
- Complete analysis to follow.
