The Jambos Move 8 Points Clear Clear at the Summit After Shankland's Spot-Kick Overcomes The Hoops
We did not witness at Tynecastle, as it's far too early for such achievements. This game highlighted is that Heart of Midlothian have a genuine strong chance of disrupting Scottish football's long-standing dominance by two. Make that an eight-point lead for the maroon side over the visitors, whom they decisively beat. Catch them if you can.
Decisive Period in the Second Half
A crucial three-minute spell made the difference, once the initial exchanges that was evenly matched. It was remarkable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how stress-free the remainder of the game was for the hosts. Alexandros Kyziridis doubled the lead, moving infield before thumping a right-footed shot past the motionless Kasper Schmeichel. More joy followed in the stands, Murray upending Braga for a foul that Shankland tucked away. Brendan Rodgers looked dejected; his problems are mounting.
Supporters began celebrating after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against Celtic.
The Visitors' Fightback
Celtic bounced back from the hosts' quick opening. Murray, who struggled throughout, conceded an own goal due to haste when trying to clear a Shankland cross. They gradually fought back into the game, skipper McGregor, finishing a Kieran Tierney cutback for the equaliser.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The shot-stopper Schwolow, who had denied from Nygren in the first half, kept out an Engels shot which touched Magnรบsson. Halkett stopped a Shin Yamada attempt in the dying moments. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the minutes passed. โWe stand firmโ has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at Tynecastle. It's hard to ignore the buzz.
- Full report to follow.
