The Tynecastle side Push 8 Points Clear in Front at Top Following Shankland's Penalty Kick Defeats The Hoops
We did not witness at Tynecastle Park, since it's far too early for such achievements. What this match did emphasise is that Heart of Midlothian possess a real strong chance of ending Scottish football's long-standing stranglehold. They now lead by eight points for the maroon side over their rivals, whom they decisively beat. Catch them if you can.
Key Moments in the After the Break
Three second-half minutes proved decisive, once the initial exchanges that was evenly matched. What was so notable after they took a 3-1 lead was how comfortable the remainder of the game was for the Tynecastle team. Alexandros Kyziridis scored Hearts’ second, cutting in from the left before firing a powerful effort past the static the Celtic keeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Dane Murray upending Braga for a spot-kick that the captain converted. Brendan Rodgers looked dejected; challenges abound for him.
Supporters began celebrating after Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against the opposition.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic had actually recovered well from an early setback. Dane Murray, who had a difficult day, conceded an own goal due to confusion when trying to remove a Shankland cross. They gradually fought back into the game, skipper Callum McGregor, turning home a Tierney pass for the equaliser.
Solid Backline
The Hearts goalkeeper Alexander Schwolow, who had denied from 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 game concluded. “We stand firm” has become the favoured chant at Tynecastle. It's hard to ignore the noise.
- Full report will be available.
