The Jambos Extend Eight Points Ahead at Top Following Shankland's Penalty Overcomes Celtic
A historic moment didn't occur at Tynecastle Park, with it being far too early for such achievements. What this match did emphasise is that Heart of Midlothian are at least in with serious opportunity of breaking Scottish football's four decade-long dominance by two. That advantage stands at eight points for the maroon side over Celtic, whom they easily dispatched. The challenge is now for others.
Key Moments in the Second Half
A crucial three-minute spell proved decisive, after an opening period that was evenly matched. What was so notable after they took a 3-1 lead was how untroubled the remainder of the game was for the hosts. Alexandros Kyziridis netted the second goal, moving infield before blasting a strike past the stationary Kasper Schmeichel. More joy followed in the stands, Dane Murray fouling the Hearts player for a penalty that Shankland tucked away. Brendan Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
Supporters began celebrating after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against Celtic.
Celtic's Response
The away side responded positively from the hosts' quick opening. The defender, who struggled throughout, turned the ball into his own net due to panic when trying to deal with a Shankland cross. They gradually fought back into the game, the captain Callum McGregor, finishing a Kieran Tierney pull-back for 1-1.
Solid Backline
The Hearts goalkeeper Alexander Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, blocked an Engels shot which flicked off Tómas Magnússon. Halkett blocked a Shin Yamada attempt in added time. The hosts faced little else as the minutes passed. “We stand firm” has become the favoured chant at the stadium. It is becoming increasingly difficult the buzz.
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