The Jambos Extend 8 Points Ahead in Front at the Summit Following Shankland's Penalty Kick Sees Off Celtic
History wasn't made at their home ground, as it's far too early for such milestones. The encounter underlined is that Heart of Midlothian are at least in with serious opportunity of disrupting Scottish football's four decade-long dominance by two. They now lead by eight points for the team over the visitors, whom they decisively beat. Try to chase them down.
Turning Point in the After the Break
Three second-half minutes proved decisive, after an opening period that was fiercely fought. It was remarkable after they took a 3-1 lead was how stress-free the remainder of the game was for the home side. The Greek winger doubled the lead, cutting in from the left before firing a powerful effort past the stationary the goalkeeper. More joy followed in the stands, the Celtic defender fouling Braga for a foul that the captain slotted home. Rodgers looked dejected; challenges abound for him.
The crowd erupted after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against the opposition.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic bounced back from Hearts’ rapid start. Murray, who had a difficult day, scored an own goal due to haste when trying to deal with a ball into the box. The Hoops worked their way into the game, leader McGregor, scoring a Tierney cutback for the equaliser.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The shot-stopper Alexander Schwolow, who had denied from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, blocked an Arne Engels shot which deflected off Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett blocked a Shin Yamada attempt in the dying moments. They comfortably saw out the game as the clock ticked down. “We shall not be moved” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the ground. It is becoming increasingly difficult the noise.
- Full report to follow.
