The Jambos Push Eight Points Ahead at the Pinnacle After Shankland's Penalty Kick Overcomes Celtic
A historic moment didn't occur at their home ground, with it being far too early for such achievements. What this match did emphasise is that Heart of Midlothian have a genuine strong chance of breaking Scottish football's long-standing dominance by two. Make that an eight-point lead for the maroon side over their rivals, whom they comfortably swatted aside. The challenge is now for others.
Turning Point in the After the Break
A crucial three-minute spell were key, following a tight first half that was contested closely. The striking aspect after they extended their advantage was how untroubled the remainder of the game was for the Tynecastle team. Kyziridis netted the second goal, moving infield before thumping a right-footed shot past the motionless the goalkeeper. More joy followed in the stands, the Celtic defender fouling Cláudio Braga for a foul that the captain tucked away. Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; challenges abound for him.
The crowd erupted after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against the opposition.
The Visitors' Fightback
Celtic had actually recovered well from an early setback. Dane Murray, who struggled throughout, conceded an own goal due to confusion when trying to clear a ball into the box. The Hoops worked their way into the game, the captain McGregor, finishing a Kieran Tierney pull-back for level terms.
Solid Backline
The Hearts goalkeeper Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, parried an Engels shot which touched Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett blocked a Yamada attempt in added time. They comfortably saw out the game as the clock ticked down. “We stand firm” has become the popular anthem at the stadium. One cannot overlook the excitement.
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