Hearts Extend 8 Points Clear in Front at the Pinnacle Following Shankland's Spot-Kick Defeats Celtic
We did not witness at Tynecastle Park, as it's far too early for such landmarks. The encounter underlined is that the Edinburgh club have a genuine credible shot of ending Scottish football's four decade-long stranglehold. They now lead by eight points for Hearts over the visitors, whom they decisively beat. Try to chase them down.
Decisive Period in the After the Break
A brief but pivotal phase proved decisive, after an opening period that was contested closely. What was so notable after they extended their advantage was how untroubled the closing stages of the game was for the Tynecastle team. Alexandros Kyziridis netted the second goal, drifting inside before blasting a strike past the stationary the goalkeeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Murray fouling Cláudio Braga for a penalty that Shankland converted. Brendan Rodgers appeared frustrated; challenges abound for him.
Fans start to rejoice after Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against Celtic.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic bounced back from the hosts' quick opening. The defender, who had a difficult day, turned the ball into his own net due to confusion when trying to deal with a delivery from Shankland. Celtic edged their way back into the game, leader McGregor, finishing a Kieran Tierney cutback for level terms.
Stubborn Defence
The shot-stopper Schwolow, who had denied from Nygren in the first half, parried an Engels shot which flicked off Magnússon. Halkett thwarted a Yamada attempt in the dying moments. The hosts faced little else as the minutes passed. “We remain resolute” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at Tynecastle. It is becoming increasingly difficult the excitement.
- Complete analysis to follow.
