The Tynecastle side Push Eight Points in Front at the Pinnacle After Shankland's Penalty Kick Defeats The Hoops
History wasn't made at Tynecastle Park, since it's far too early for such milestones. What this match did emphasise is that the Edinburgh club are at least in with strong chance of ending Scottish football's long-standing stranglehold. Make that an eight-point lead for Hearts over Celtic, whom they easily dispatched. The challenge is now for others.
Key Moments in the Second Half
Three second-half minutes proved decisive, once the initial exchanges that was fiercely fought. It was remarkable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how comfortable the closing stages of the game was for the hosts. Alexandros Kyziridis scored Hearts’ second, moving infield before firing a powerful effort past the stationary Kasper Schmeichel. Delight increased in the stands, Murray upending the Hearts player for a penalty that Lawrence Shankland tucked away. Brendan Rodgers looked dejected; his problems are mounting.
The crowd erupted after Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against Celtic.
Celtic's Response
Celtic bounced back from Hearts’ rapid start. Murray, who had a difficult day, turned the ball into his own net due to haste when trying to clear a ball into the box. The Hoops worked their way into the game, skipper McGregor, finishing a Tierney pass for the equaliser.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The keeper Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, kept out an Engels shot which flicked off Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett thwarted a Shin Yamada attempt in added time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the clock ticked down. “We shall not be moved” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the ground. One cannot overlook the excitement.
- Detailed coverage will be available.
