The Tynecastle side Push 8 Points Clear at Top After Shankland's Penalty Overcomes Celtic
History wasn't made at their home ground, with it being far too early for such achievements. The encounter underlined is that the Edinburgh club possess a real serious opportunity of disrupting Scottish football's four decade-long stranglehold. Make that an eight-point lead for the maroon side over Celtic, whom they decisively beat. The challenge is now for others.
Key Moments in the Latter Period
Three second-half minutes were key, after an opening period that was fiercely fought. The striking aspect after they extended their advantage was how comfortable the closing stages of the game was for the hosts. The Greek winger scored Hearts’ second, drifting inside before thumping a right-footed shot past the motionless the Celtic keeper. More joy followed in the stands, Dane Murray bringing down the Hearts player for a spot-kick that Shankland tucked away. Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; his problems are mounting.
The crowd erupted after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against the opposition.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic bounced back from Hearts’ rapid start. The defender, who endured a torrid afternoon, turned the ball into his own net due to confusion when trying to deal with a Shankland cross. Celtic edged their way back into the game, leader McGregor, finishing a Tierney pull-back for level terms.
Solid Backline
The shot-stopper Alexander Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, parried an Arne Engels shot which flicked off Tómas Magnússon. Halkett blocked a Yamada attempt in added time. The hosts faced little else as the clock ticked down. “We remain resolute” has become the popular anthem at Tynecastle. It's hard to ignore the excitement.
- Detailed coverage coming soon.
