The Jambos Move Eight Points Ahead in Front at Top Following Shankland's Penalty Sees Off The Hoops
History wasn't made at their home ground, with it being far too early for such milestones. This game highlighted is that the Edinburgh club have a genuine serious opportunity of breaking Scottish football's 40-year stranglehold. That advantage stands at eight points for Hearts over the visitors, whom they easily dispatched. The challenge is now for others.
Key Moments in the After the Break
A brief but pivotal phase were key, following a tight first half that was evenly matched. What was so notable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how stress-free the rest of the game was for the hosts. Alexandros Kyziridis scored Hearts’ second, drifting inside before blasting a strike past the static the Celtic keeper. More joy followed in the stands, the Celtic defender upending Braga for a penalty that the captain slotted home. Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; his problems are mounting.
Fans start to rejoice after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against Celtic.
Celtic's Response
Celtic had actually recovered well from the hosts' quick opening. Murray, who struggled throughout, scored an own goal due to confusion when trying to deal with a delivery from Shankland. The Hoops worked their way into the game, skipper McGregor, scoring a Kieran Tierney cutback for the equaliser.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The shot-stopper Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Nygren in the first half, blocked an Arne Engels shot which flicked off Magnússon. Craig Halkett blocked a Shin Yamada attempt in the dying moments. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the minutes passed. “We shall not be moved” has become the favoured chant at Tynecastle. It is becoming increasingly difficult the excitement.
- Detailed coverage to follow.
