The Jambos Extend Eight Points Ahead in Front at the Summit After Shankland's Penalty Defeats Celtic
A historic moment didn't occur at Tynecastle, as it's far too early for such milestones. This game highlighted is that Hearts have a genuine credible shot of ending Scottish football's long-standing stranglehold. That advantage stands at eight points 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 proved decisive, following a tight first half that was fiercely fought. The striking aspect after they extended their advantage was how stress-free the closing stages of the game was for the hosts. The Greek winger scored Hearts’ second, cutting in from the left before blasting a strike past the stationary the goalkeeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Dane Murray upending the Hearts player for a foul that the captain converted. The Celtic manager looked dejected; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
Fans start to rejoice after Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against the opposition.
The Visitors' Fightback
Celtic bounced back from an early setback. Dane Murray, who struggled throughout, scored an own goal due to confusion when trying to clear a Shankland cross. The Hoops worked their way into the game, the captain McGregor, turning home a Tierney pull-back for 1-1.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The Hearts goalkeeper Alexander Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, parried an Arne Engels shot which deflected off Tómas Magnússon. Halkett thwarted a Shin Yamada attempt in stoppage time. They comfortably saw out the game as the clock ticked down. “We stand firm” has become the popular anthem at the stadium. It is becoming increasingly difficult the buzz.
- Full report to follow.
