The Jambos Extend 8 Points Clear in Front at the Pinnacle Following Shankland's Penalty Defeats The Hoops
We did not witness at Tynecastle, with it being far too early for such achievements. What this match did emphasise is that Hearts have a genuine strong chance of disrupting Scottish football's 40-year stranglehold. They now lead by eight points for the maroon side over the visitors, whom they easily dispatched. Catch them if you can.
Turning Point in the Latter Period
A crucial three-minute spell proved decisive, once the initial exchanges that was contested closely. The striking aspect after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how untroubled the remainder of the game was for the Tynecastle team. Kyziridis netted the second goal, moving infield before thumping a right-footed shot past the motionless the goalkeeper. Delight increased in the stands, Dane Murray upending Cláudio Braga for a spot-kick that Shankland tucked away. Brendan Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; his problems are mounting.
Fans start to rejoice after Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against Celtic.
Celtic's Response
Celtic bounced back from Hearts’ rapid start. The defender, who struggled throughout, scored an own goal due to panic when trying to clear a ball into the box. The Hoops worked their way into the game, skipper McGregor, turning home a Kieran Tierney pull-back for level terms.
Solid Backline
The shot-stopper Schwolow, who had denied from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, kept out an Arne Engels shot which deflected off Magnússon. Craig Halkett stopped a Shin Yamada attempt in stoppage time. They comfortably saw out the game as the minutes passed. “We stand firm” has become the popular anthem at the ground. It's hard to ignore the noise.
- Full report will be available.
