The Tynecastle side Push Eight Points Ahead Clear at the Summit Following Shankland's Spot-Kick Overcomes Celtic
A historic moment didn't occur at Tynecastle Park, with it being far too early for such milestones. This game highlighted is that the Edinburgh club have a genuine serious opportunity of disrupting Scottish football's four decade-long stranglehold. They now lead by eight points for the maroon side over the visitors, whom they easily dispatched. The challenge is now for others.
Decisive Period in the Second Half
A crucial three-minute spell made the difference, following a tight first half that was evenly matched. The striking aspect after they took a 3-1 lead was how stress-free the closing stages of the game was for the hosts. The Greek winger scored Hearts’ second, moving infield before thumping a right-footed shot past the static Kasper Schmeichel. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Murray bringing down the Hearts player for a foul that Shankland slotted home. Rodgers looked dejected; challenges abound for him.
Fans start to rejoice after Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against Celtic.
Celtic's Response
The away side responded positively from an early setback. Murray, who had a difficult day, scored an own goal due to confusion when trying to clear a delivery from Shankland. Celtic edged their way back into the game, leader McGregor, finishing a Tierney pull-back for the equaliser.
Solid Backline
The shot-stopper Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, kept out an Engels shot which flicked off Magnússon. Craig Halkett stopped a Yamada attempt in stoppage time. The hosts faced little else as the clock ticked down. “We remain resolute” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the stadium. It's hard to ignore the noise.
- Detailed coverage to follow.
