The Jambos Move Eight Points Ahead at the Summit Following Shankland's Penalty Kick Overcomes The Hoops
We did not witness at their home ground, with it being far too early for such landmarks. The encounter underlined is that the Edinburgh club possess a real credible shot of disrupting Scottish football's four decade-long stranglehold. Make that an eight-point lead for the maroon side over Celtic, whom they decisively beat. Try to chase them down.
Turning Point in the Latter Period
A brief but pivotal phase made the difference, after an opening period that was contested closely. It was remarkable after they extended their advantage was how stress-free the closing stages of the game was for the hosts. The Greek winger netted the second goal, drifting inside before thumping a right-footed shot past the static the Celtic keeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Murray upending the Hearts player for a foul that Lawrence Shankland slotted home. Brendan Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
Supporters began celebrating after Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against the opposition.
Celtic's Response
Celtic bounced back from an early setback. The defender, who endured a torrid afternoon, scored an own goal due to confusion when trying to clear a Shankland cross. Celtic edged their way back into the game, leader Callum McGregor, scoring a Kieran Tierney cutback for the equaliser.
Stubborn Defence
The Hearts goalkeeper Schwolow, who had denied from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, kept out an Engels shot which flicked off Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett thwarted a Yamada attempt in the dying moments. They comfortably saw out the game as the minutes passed. “We remain resolute” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at Tynecastle. One cannot overlook the noise.
- Detailed coverage to follow.
