The Tynecastle side Push Eight Points Ahead Clear at the Pinnacle After Shankland's Spot-Kick Overcomes Celtic
History wasn't made at Tynecastle Park, since it's far too early for such milestones. What this match did emphasise is that the Edinburgh club have a genuine serious opportunity of disrupting Scottish football's four decade-long title duopoly. They now lead by eight points for the maroon side over Celtic, whom they decisively beat. Try to chase them down.
Decisive Period in the Latter Period
A brief but pivotal phase were key, once the initial exchanges that was contested closely. 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 doubled the lead, drifting inside before firing a powerful effort past the stationary Kasper Schmeichel. Delight increased in the stands, Murray upending Braga for a spot-kick that the captain tucked away. Rodgers looked dejected; challenges abound for him.
The crowd erupted after Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against Celtic.
Celtic's Response
The away side responded positively from Hearts’ rapid start. The defender, who struggled throughout, turned the ball into his own net due to confusion when trying to deal with a delivery from Shankland. The Hoops worked their way into the game, leader Callum McGregor, scoring a Tierney pull-back for level terms.
Solid Backline
The Hearts goalkeeper Alexander Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Nygren in the first half, parried an Arne Engels shot which flicked off Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett thwarted a Yamada attempt in added time. The hosts faced little else as the clock ticked down. “We stand firm” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at Tynecastle. It's hard to ignore the excitement.
- Detailed coverage coming soon.
