The Jambos Extend Eight Points Clear in Front at Top After Shankland's Penalty Defeats Celtic
A historic moment didn't occur at Tynecastle, with it being far too early for such achievements. What this match did emphasise is that Heart of Midlothian possess a real strong chance of breaking Scottish football's long-standing stranglehold. That advantage stands at eight points for Hearts over Celtic, whom they easily dispatched. Catch them if you can.
Turning Point in the Latter Period
Three second-half minutes made the difference, after an opening period that was fiercely fought. It was remarkable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how untroubled the remainder of the game was for the Tynecastle team. Alexandros Kyziridis netted the second goal, moving infield before firing a powerful effort past the static Kasper Schmeichel. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, the Celtic defender bringing down Braga for a foul that Shankland slotted home. The Celtic manager looked dejected; his problems are mounting.
Supporters began celebrating after Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against Celtic.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic bounced back from Hearts’ rapid start. Murray, who struggled throughout, scored an own goal due to confusion when trying to deal with a ball into the box. They gradually fought back into the game, leader McGregor, scoring a Tierney pass for 1-1.
Stubborn Defence
The shot-stopper Schwolow, who had denied from Nygren in the first half, parried an Engels shot which deflected off Magnússon. Halkett stopped a Yamada attempt in the dying moments. The hosts faced little else as the clock ticked down. “We shall not be moved” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the ground. It's hard to ignore the excitement.
- Detailed coverage coming soon.
