Hearts Extend 8 Points Clear in Front at Top After Shankland's Spot-Kick Sees Off The Hoops
History wasn't made at their home ground, as it's far too early for such landmarks. What this match did emphasise is that Heart of Midlothian have a genuine strong chance of breaking Scottish football's four decade-long title duopoly. They now lead by eight points for the team over the visitors, whom they easily dispatched. The challenge is now for others.
Key Moments in the Latter Period
Three second-half minutes proved decisive, once the initial exchanges that was evenly matched. What was so notable after they extended their advantage was how comfortable the closing stages of the game was for the home side. Alexandros Kyziridis scored Hearts’ second, cutting in from the left before firing a powerful effort past the stationary the goalkeeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Murray bringing down Braga for a penalty that the captain converted. Rodgers looked dejected; challenges abound for him.
Fans start to rejoice after Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against Celtic.
Hoops' Reaction
The away side responded positively from the hosts' quick opening. The defender, who had a difficult day, conceded an own goal due to confusion when trying to deal with a Shankland cross. They gradually fought back into the game, leader McGregor, turning home a Kieran Tierney cutback for 1-1.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The shot-stopper Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Nygren in the first half, kept out an Arne Engels shot which flicked off Tómas Magnússon. Halkett thwarted a Shin Yamada attempt in the dying moments. The hosts faced little else as the game concluded. “We stand firm” has become the popular anthem at Tynecastle. It's hard to ignore the excitement.
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