The Tynecastle side Extend Eight Points Ahead Ahead at the Pinnacle Following Shankland's Spot-Kick Defeats The Glasgow Giants
A historic moment didn't occur at Tynecastle, as it's far too early for such achievements. What this match did emphasise is that Hearts have a genuine serious opportunity of ending Scottish football's 40-year title duopoly. Make that an eight-point lead for the maroon side over their rivals, whom they comfortably swatted aside. Try to chase them down.
Turning Point in the Second Half
A crucial three-minute spell proved decisive, following a tight first half that was fiercely fought. The striking aspect after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how comfortable the remainder of the game was for the home side. Kyziridis doubled the lead, drifting inside before thumping a right-footed shot past the motionless Kasper Schmeichel. More joy followed in the stands, Murray upending Cláudio Braga for a foul that the captain tucked away. Rodgers looked dejected; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
The crowd erupted after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against the opposition.
The Visitors' Fightback
Celtic had actually recovered well from Hearts’ rapid start. The defender, who struggled throughout, turned the ball into his own net due to panic when trying to deal with a delivery from Shankland. Celtic edged their way back into the game, the captain Callum McGregor, turning home a Kieran Tierney cutback for level terms.
Stubborn Defence
The keeper Alexander Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, blocked an Arne Engels shot which touched Tómas Magnússon. Halkett thwarted a Shin Yamada attempt in the dying moments. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the minutes passed. “We shall not be moved” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the stadium. It's hard to ignore the noise.
- Complete analysis coming soon.
