The Jambos Push 8 Points Ahead Clear at the Pinnacle Following Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Overcomes The Hoops
History wasn't made at Tynecastle, as it's far too early for such achievements. What this match did emphasise is that Hearts are at least in with strong chance of disrupting Scottish football's four decade-long dominance by two. They now lead by eight points for Hearts over their rivals, whom they comfortably swatted aside. Try to chase them down.
Key Moments in the Latter Period
Three second-half minutes proved decisive, following a tight first half that was fiercely fought. The striking aspect after they took a 3-1 lead was how stress-free the closing stages of the game was for the hosts. The Greek winger doubled the lead, drifting inside before firing a powerful effort past the stationary the goalkeeper. Delight increased in the stands, Murray fouling the Hearts player for a foul that Shankland converted. Brendan Rodgers appeared frustrated; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
The crowd erupted after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against the opposition.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic had actually recovered well from Hearts’ rapid start. Dane Murray, who struggled throughout, conceded an own goal due to confusion when trying to remove a ball into the box. They gradually fought back into the game, leader Callum McGregor, finishing a Kieran Tierney cutback for the equaliser.
Solid Backline
The shot-stopper Schwolow, who had denied from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, blocked an Engels shot which deflected off Tómas Magnússon. Halkett thwarted a Yamada attempt in added time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the minutes passed. “We remain resolute” has become the favoured chant at the stadium. It's hard to ignore the buzz.
- Complete analysis will be available.
