Hearts Extend Eight Points in Front at the Pinnacle After Shankland's Penalty Sees Off The Hoops
A historic moment didn't occur at Tynecastle, since it's far too early for such landmarks. This game highlighted is that the Edinburgh club possess a real serious opportunity of breaking Scottish football's long-standing dominance by two. Make that an eight-point lead for Hearts over the visitors, whom they decisively beat. Try to chase them down.
Decisive Period in the Second Half
A brief but pivotal phase proved decisive, following a tight first half that was evenly matched. It was remarkable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how comfortable the remainder of the game was for the Tynecastle team. The Greek winger scored Hearts’ second, moving infield before thumping a right-footed shot past the static Kasper Schmeichel. Delight increased in the stands, the Celtic defender bringing down Cláudio Braga for a foul that Shankland converted. Rodgers looked dejected; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
The crowd erupted after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against the opposition.
Celtic's Response
Celtic had actually recovered well from the hosts' quick opening. Dane Murray, who endured a torrid afternoon, scored an own goal due to panic when trying to clear a delivery from Shankland. The Hoops worked their way into the game, the captain McGregor, finishing a Kieran Tierney pull-back for 1-1.
Solid Backline
The Hearts goalkeeper Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, parried an Engels shot which deflected off Magnússon. Halkett thwarted a Yamada attempt in the dying moments. The hosts faced little else as the clock ticked down. “We remain resolute” has become the favoured chant at the stadium. It's hard to ignore the excitement.
- Complete analysis coming soon.
