The Jambos Push Eight Points Ahead at the Pinnacle Following Shankland's Spot-Kick Sees Off The Hoops
History wasn't made at Tynecastle Park, with it being far too early for such achievements. The encounter underlined is that Heart of Midlothian have a genuine strong chance of ending Scottish football's long-standing title duopoly. Make that an eight-point lead for the maroon side over the visitors, whom they comfortably swatted aside. Try to chase them down.
Decisive Period in the Latter Period
A crucial three-minute spell proved decisive, after an opening period 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 Tynecastle team. The Greek winger netted the second goal, moving infield before firing a powerful effort past the static Kasper Schmeichel. More joy followed in the stands, the Celtic defender fouling the Hearts player for a spot-kick that Lawrence Shankland slotted home. Brendan Rodgers appeared frustrated; his problems are mounting.
Supporters began celebrating after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against Celtic.
Hoops' Reaction
The away side responded positively from the hosts' quick opening. Dane Murray, who struggled throughout, conceded an own goal due to haste when trying to deal with a ball into the box. Celtic edged their way back into the game, the captain Callum McGregor, turning home a Kieran Tierney pull-back for 1-1.
Solid Backline
The keeper Alexander Schwolow, who had denied from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, blocked an Arne Engels shot which deflected off Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett stopped a Yamada attempt in stoppage time. The hosts faced little else as the game concluded. “We remain resolute” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at Tynecastle. It's hard to ignore the excitement.
- Full report will be available.