The Tynecastle side Move Eight Points Clear in Front at the Pinnacle After Shankland's Penalty Sees Off Celtic
History wasn't made at Tynecastle, since it's far too early for such milestones. What this match did emphasise is that the Edinburgh club have a genuine strong chance of breaking Scottish football's 40-year stranglehold. Make that an eight-point lead for Hearts over Celtic, whom they comfortably swatted aside. Try to chase them down.
Key Moments in the Second Half
A brief but pivotal phase made the difference, after an opening period that was contested closely. What was so notable after they took a 3-1 lead was how comfortable the closing stages of the game was for the home side. Kyziridis doubled the lead, drifting inside before thumping a right-footed shot past the motionless Kasper Schmeichel. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Dane Murray fouling Cláudio Braga for a foul that Lawrence Shankland tucked away. Brendan Rodgers appeared frustrated; his problems are mounting.
Supporters began celebrating after Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against the opposition.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic bounced back from the hosts' quick opening. Murray, who had a difficult day, scored an own goal due to confusion when trying to deal with a Shankland cross. They gradually fought back into the game, skipper McGregor, scoring a Kieran Tierney cutback for 1-1.
Stubborn Defence
The keeper Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, parried an Arne Engels shot which flicked off Magnússon. Halkett blocked a Shin Yamada attempt in stoppage time. They comfortably saw out the game as the game concluded. “We stand firm” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at Tynecastle. It's hard to ignore the noise.
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