The Tynecastle side Extend 8 Points Clear Ahead at the Summit Following Shankland's Penalty Kick Defeats The Hoops
A historic moment didn't occur at Tynecastle Park, since it's far too early for such milestones. What this match did emphasise is that Heart of Midlothian possess a real strong chance of breaking Scottish football's long-standing stranglehold. Make that an eight-point lead for Hearts over the visitors, whom they comfortably swatted aside. The challenge is now for others.
Key Moments in the After the Break
A crucial three-minute spell proved decisive, once the initial exchanges that was contested closely. The striking aspect after they extended their advantage was how stress-free the remainder of the game was for the Tynecastle team. Alexandros Kyziridis netted the second goal, moving infield before blasting a strike past the static the goalkeeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, the Celtic defender upending Braga for a penalty that the captain slotted home. Brendan Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; his problems are mounting.
The crowd erupted after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against Celtic.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic had actually recovered well from the hosts' quick opening. Dane Murray, who had a difficult day, scored an own goal due to panic when trying to remove a Shankland cross. Celtic edged their way back into the game, skipper McGregor, turning home a Tierney cutback for the equaliser.
Stubborn Defence
The keeper Alexander Schwolow, who had denied from Nygren in the first half, parried an Engels shot which touched Tómas Magnússon. Halkett thwarted a Shin Yamada attempt in added time. The hosts faced little else as the game concluded. “We shall not be moved” has become the favoured chant at the stadium. It is becoming increasingly difficult the noise.
- Full report to follow.
