Hearts Push Eight Points Clear Clear at Top Following Shankland's Penalty Kick Defeats The Hoops
History wasn't made at Tynecastle Park, since it's far too early for such landmarks. The encounter underlined is that Hearts possess a real strong chance of ending Scottish football's four decade-long title duopoly. They now lead by eight points for Hearts over the visitors, whom they easily dispatched. Try to chase them down.
Key Moments in the Second Half
A crucial three-minute spell were key, once the initial exchanges that was contested closely. What was so notable after they extended their advantage was how untroubled the rest of the game was for the Tynecastle team. Alexandros Kyziridis doubled the lead, cutting in from the left before blasting a strike past the motionless the goalkeeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Dane Murray upending Braga for a penalty that Shankland slotted home. The Celtic manager cut such a disconsolate figure; his problems are mounting.
Supporters began celebrating after Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against Celtic.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic bounced back from the hosts' quick opening. Murray, 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, the captain Callum McGregor, finishing a Kieran Tierney pass for 1-1.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The shot-stopper Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Nygren in the first half, kept out an Arne Engels shot which deflected off Tómas Magnússon. Halkett blocked a Yamada attempt in stoppage time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the game concluded. “We stand firm” has become the favoured chant at Tynecastle. It is becoming increasingly difficult the noise.
- Full report coming soon.