The Jambos Extend Eight Points Ahead in Front at Top After Shankland's Penalty Kick Defeats Celtic
A historic moment didn't occur at their home ground, with it being far too early for such achievements. The encounter underlined is that the Edinburgh club have a genuine credible shot of disrupting Scottish football's four decade-long title duopoly. Make that an eight-point lead for the team over the visitors, whom they decisively beat. Catch them if you can.
Turning Point in the After the Break
Three second-half minutes were key, following a tight first half that was evenly matched. The striking aspect after they extended their advantage was how comfortable the rest of the game was for the Tynecastle team. Alexandros Kyziridis netted the second goal, cutting in from the left before firing a powerful effort past the static the goalkeeper. More joy followed in the stands, Murray upending Cláudio Braga for a penalty that Lawrence Shankland converted. Rodgers appeared frustrated; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
Fans start to rejoice after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against the opposition.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic had actually recovered well from an early setback. The defender, who had a difficult day, scored an own goal due to confusion when trying to clear a Shankland cross. The Hoops worked their way into the game, skipper McGregor, scoring a Kieran Tierney pass for level terms.
Solid Backline
The Hearts goalkeeper Alexander Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Nygren in the first half, kept out an Arne Engels shot which flicked off Magnússon. Halkett thwarted a Shin Yamada attempt in added time. They comfortably saw out the game as the clock ticked down. “We stand firm” has become the popular anthem at the ground. It's hard to ignore the noise.
- Detailed coverage to follow.
