The Tynecastle side Move Eight Points Ahead Clear at Top After Shankland's Spot-Kick Defeats Celtic
History wasn't made at their home ground, as it's far too early for such milestones. This game highlighted is that Hearts have a genuine serious opportunity of disrupting Scottish football's 40-year stranglehold. They now lead by eight points for the maroon side over Celtic, whom they comfortably swatted aside. Catch them if you can.
Key Moments in the Latter Period
A brief but pivotal phase proved decisive, following a tight first half that was fiercely fought. It was remarkable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how untroubled the rest of the game was for the hosts. Kyziridis netted the second goal, moving infield before blasting a strike past the static the goalkeeper. Delight increased in the stands, Murray bringing down the Hearts player for a foul that Lawrence Shankland tucked away. The Celtic manager looked dejected; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
Fans start to rejoice after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against Celtic.
The Visitors' Fightback
Celtic bounced back from the hosts' quick opening. The defender, who struggled throughout, turned the ball into his own net due to confusion when trying to clear a Shankland cross. The Hoops worked their way into the game, leader McGregor, scoring a Tierney pull-back for level terms.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The Hearts goalkeeper Alexander Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, kept out an Engels shot which touched Magnússon. Craig Halkett stopped a Shin Yamada attempt in added time. The hosts faced little else as the game concluded. “We stand firm” has become the favoured chant at the ground. It's hard to ignore the buzz.
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