The Jambos Extend 8 Points Ahead Ahead at the Pinnacle After Shankland's Penalty Overcomes The Glasgow Giants
History wasn't made at Tynecastle Park, as it's far too early for such landmarks. The encounter underlined is that the Edinburgh club have a genuine credible shot of breaking Scottish football's long-standing dominance by two. Make that an eight-point lead for Hearts over Celtic, whom they easily dispatched. The challenge is now for others.
Decisive Period in the Latter Period
A crucial three-minute spell were key, once the initial exchanges that was evenly matched. The striking aspect after they extended their advantage was how comfortable the closing stages of the game was for the Tynecastle team. The Greek winger scored Hearts’ second, drifting inside before thumping a right-footed shot past the motionless the goalkeeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Murray upending Braga for a spot-kick that Shankland tucked away. Rodgers appeared frustrated; challenges abound for him.
The crowd erupted after Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against Celtic.
Celtic's Response
Celtic bounced back from the hosts' quick opening. Murray, who struggled throughout, conceded an own goal due to confusion when trying to remove a ball into the box. They gradually fought back into the game, leader McGregor, turning home a Kieran Tierney pass 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 touched Magnússon. Halkett stopped a Yamada attempt in the dying moments. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the clock ticked down. “We shall not be moved” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the stadium. It's hard to ignore the noise.
- Complete analysis to follow.
