The Jambos Extend Eight Points Clear Ahead at Top Following Shankland's Penalty Overcomes The Hoops
A historic moment didn't occur at their home ground, since it's far too early for such milestones. This game highlighted is that Hearts are at least in with credible shot of ending Scottish football's four decade-long dominance by two. Make that an eight-point lead for Hearts over their rivals, whom they decisively beat. Catch them if you can.
Turning Point in the Second Half
Three second-half minutes were key, once the initial exchanges that was contested closely. What was so notable after they extended their advantage was how comfortable the closing stages of the game was for the Tynecastle team. Kyziridis netted the second goal, moving infield before blasting a strike past the static the Celtic keeper. Delight increased in the stands, Dane Murray bringing down the Hearts player for a penalty that the captain slotted home. Rodgers appeared frustrated; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
Fans start to rejoice after Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against the opposition.
The Visitors' Fightback
The away side responded positively from Hearts’ rapid start. Murray, who struggled throughout, turned the ball into his own net due to confusion when trying to remove a delivery from Shankland. Celtic edged their way back into the game, the captain McGregor, scoring a Kieran Tierney pull-back for 1-1.
Stubborn Defence
The shot-stopper Alexander Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, kept out an Engels shot which deflected off Tómas Magnússon. Halkett stopped a Shin Yamada attempt in added time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the minutes passed. “We remain resolute” has become the favoured chant at the ground. One cannot overlook the buzz.
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