The Tynecastle side Move 8 Points Ahead at the Pinnacle Following Shankland's Penalty Kick Defeats The Hoops
History wasn't made at Tynecastle Park, as it's far too early for such achievements. The encounter underlined is that Hearts have a genuine credible shot of breaking Scottish football's four decade-long title duopoly. That advantage stands at eight points for Hearts over their rivals, whom they easily dispatched. Catch them if you can.
Turning Point in the After the Break
A crucial three-minute spell proved decisive, after an opening period that was fiercely fought. It was remarkable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how stress-free the rest of the game was for the Tynecastle team. The Greek winger scored Hearts’ second, drifting inside before thumping a right-footed shot past the static Kasper Schmeichel. Delight increased in the stands, Dane Murray upending Cláudio Braga for a foul that Shankland converted. Rodgers appeared frustrated; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
Fans start to rejoice after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against Celtic.
Celtic's Response
Celtic had actually recovered well from an early setback. The defender, who had a difficult day, turned the ball into his own net due to panic when trying to clear a ball into the box. Celtic edged their way back into the game, skipper Callum McGregor, finishing a Kieran Tierney pull-back for level terms.
Solid Backline
The Hearts goalkeeper Alexander Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, blocked an Arne Engels shot which touched Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett blocked a Shin Yamada attempt in added time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the game concluded. “We remain resolute” has become the favoured chant at Tynecastle. It is becoming increasingly difficult the noise.
- Complete analysis coming soon.
