Hearts Extend Eight Points Ahead at Top Following Shankland's Penalty Kick Overcomes The Hoops
A historic moment didn't occur at Tynecastle Park, since it's far too early for such achievements. This game highlighted is that Hearts have a genuine strong chance of disrupting Scottish football's long-standing title duopoly. They now lead by eight points for the maroon side over the visitors, whom they easily dispatched. Catch them if you can.
Turning Point in the Latter Period
A brief but pivotal phase made the difference, following a tight first half that was evenly matched. What was so notable after they took a 3-1 lead was how stress-free the remainder of the game was for the Tynecastle team. The Greek winger netted the second goal, moving infield before thumping a right-footed shot past the static the Celtic keeper. Delight increased in the stands, Murray bringing down Braga for a spot-kick that the captain converted. Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
The crowd erupted after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against the opposition.
Celtic's Response
Celtic bounced back from Hearts’ rapid start. The defender, who struggled throughout, conceded an own goal due to panic when trying to clear a Shankland cross. They gradually fought back into the game, skipper McGregor, finishing a Kieran Tierney pass for level terms.
Stubborn Defence
The keeper Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Nygren in the first half, kept out an Arne Engels shot which touched Tómas Magnússon. Halkett blocked a Yamada attempt in added time. The hosts faced little else as the minutes passed. “We shall not be moved” has become the popular anthem at the stadium. It's hard to ignore the noise.
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