The Tynecastle side Extend Eight Points Clear Clear at the Pinnacle After Shankland's Penalty Overcomes The Hoops
We did not witness at Tynecastle Park, with it being far too early for such landmarks. What this match did emphasise is that Hearts possess a real credible shot of disrupting Scottish football's long-standing title duopoly. That advantage stands at eight points for Hearts over their rivals, whom they easily dispatched. Catch them if you can.
Decisive Period in the Latter Period
A crucial three-minute spell proved decisive, following a tight first half that was fiercely fought. The striking aspect after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how stress-free the closing stages of the game was for the hosts. Alexandros Kyziridis doubled the lead, drifting inside before blasting a strike past the motionless Kasper Schmeichel. More joy followed in the stands, the Celtic defender bringing down Cláudio Braga for a penalty that Shankland converted. Brendan Rodgers appeared frustrated; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
The crowd erupted after Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against Celtic.
Celtic's Response
Celtic had actually recovered well from Hearts’ rapid start. The defender, who endured a torrid afternoon, conceded an own goal due to panic when trying to deal with a Shankland cross. They gradually fought back into the game, the captain McGregor, turning home a Tierney cutback for level terms.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The keeper Schwolow, who had denied from Nygren in the first half, blocked an Arne Engels shot which deflected off Magnússon. Halkett blocked a Shin Yamada attempt in the dying moments. The hosts faced little else as the clock ticked down. “We stand firm” has become the popular anthem at the ground. One cannot overlook the buzz.
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