The Jambos Push 8 Points Clear Clear at Top Following Shankland's Penalty Kick Overcomes Celtic
History wasn't made at Tynecastle Park, with it being far too early for such milestones. What this match did emphasise is that the Edinburgh club possess a real serious opportunity of ending Scottish football's four decade-long title duopoly. That advantage stands at eight points for the maroon side over Celtic, whom they decisively beat. Try to chase them down.
Decisive Period in the Latter Period
A brief but pivotal phase proved decisive, after an opening period that was contested closely. What was so notable after they took a 3-1 lead was how stress-free the remainder of the game was for the hosts. The Greek winger doubled the lead, moving infield before blasting a strike past the motionless the Celtic keeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Dane Murray upending Cláudio Braga for a penalty that the captain tucked away. Rodgers appeared frustrated; challenges abound for him.
Fans start to rejoice after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against the opposition.
Hoops' Reaction
The away side responded positively from an early setback. 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. They gradually fought back into the game, the captain Callum McGregor, scoring a Kieran Tierney pass for 1-1.
Stubborn Defence
The Hearts goalkeeper Alexander Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, kept out an Arne Engels shot which deflected off Magnússon. Craig Halkett stopped a Shin Yamada attempt in stoppage time. They comfortably saw out the game as the game concluded. “We remain resolute” has become the favoured chant at the ground. One cannot overlook the excitement.
- Complete analysis to follow.
