The Tynecastle side Move Eight Points Clear at the Summit Following Shankland's Penalty Kick Defeats The Hoops
We did not witness at Tynecastle Park, since it's far too early for such landmarks. This game highlighted is that Hearts are at least in with strong chance of ending Scottish football's four decade-long dominance by two. They now lead by eight points for the team over Celtic, whom they decisively beat. The challenge is now for others.
Decisive Period in the Second Half
A crucial three-minute spell 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 rest of the game was for the hosts. Alexandros Kyziridis scored Hearts’ second, cutting in from the left before thumping a right-footed shot past the motionless Kasper Schmeichel. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Dane Murray fouling Braga for a penalty that the captain converted. The Celtic manager appeared frustrated; challenges abound for him.
Fans start to rejoice after Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against the opposition.
Celtic's Response
The away side responded positively from Hearts’ rapid start. Murray, who struggled throughout, turned the ball into his own net due to confusion when trying to remove a delivery from Shankland. Celtic edged their way back into the game, leader Callum McGregor, scoring a Kieran Tierney pass for the equaliser.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The Hearts goalkeeper Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Nygren in the first half, kept out an Arne Engels shot which touched Magnússon. Halkett blocked a Shin Yamada attempt in stoppage time. They comfortably saw out the game as the clock ticked down. “We remain resolute” has become the popular anthem at the stadium. One cannot overlook the buzz.
- Complete analysis to follow.
