The Tynecastle side Push 8 Points Clear Clear at the Summit Following Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Kick Defeats The Hoops
History wasn't made at their home ground, as it's far too early for such landmarks. This game highlighted is that Hearts have a genuine credible shot of ending Scottish football's 40-year dominance by two. Make that an eight-point lead for the team over Celtic, whom they comfortably swatted aside. Catch them if you can.
Key Moments in the After the Break
A brief but pivotal phase made the difference, after an opening period that was evenly matched. What was so notable after they extended their advantage was how untroubled the remainder of the game was for the Tynecastle team. Alexandros Kyziridis netted the second goal, drifting inside before blasting a strike past the stationary the Celtic keeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Dane Murray fouling Braga for a spot-kick that the captain converted. Rodgers appeared frustrated; challenges abound for him.
Supporters began celebrating after Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against Celtic.
The Visitors' Fightback
The away side responded positively from an early setback. Dane Murray, who endured a torrid afternoon, scored an own goal due to confusion when trying to remove a ball into the box. They gradually fought back into the game, the captain McGregor, scoring a Tierney pass for level terms.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The shot-stopper Alexander Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, parried an Engels shot which flicked off Tómas Magnússon. Halkett thwarted a Shin Yamada attempt in stoppage time. They comfortably saw out the game as the clock ticked down. “We shall not be moved” has become the popular anthem at the stadium. One cannot overlook the buzz.
- Detailed coverage to follow.
