The Tynecastle side Push 8 Points Clear at Top After Shankland's Penalty Overcomes Celtic
We did not witness at Tynecastle, with it being far too early for such landmarks. The encounter underlined is that Hearts have a genuine strong chance of breaking Scottish football's long-standing stranglehold. That advantage stands at eight points for the team over the visitors, whom they decisively beat. Catch them if you can.
Decisive Period in the Second Half
Three second-half minutes proved decisive, following a tight first half that was evenly matched. It was remarkable after they took a 3-1 lead was how untroubled the rest of the game was for the hosts. Alexandros Kyziridis scored Hearts’ second, drifting inside before thumping a right-footed shot past the static the goalkeeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Dane Murray upending Cláudio Braga for a spot-kick that the captain slotted home. The Celtic manager cut such a disconsolate figure; challenges abound for him.
The crowd erupted after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against Celtic.
The Visitors' Fightback
The away side responded positively from Hearts’ rapid start. Dane Murray, who endured a torrid afternoon, scored an own goal due to confusion when trying to deal with a delivery from Shankland. The Hoops worked their way into the game, leader McGregor, scoring a Tierney pull-back for 1-1.
Stubborn Defence
The keeper Alexander Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Nygren in the first half, blocked an Engels shot which touched Tómas Magnússon. Halkett stopped a Shin Yamada attempt in stoppage time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the clock ticked down. “We remain resolute” has become the favoured chant at the stadium. It's hard to ignore the excitement.
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