Hearts Extend Eight Points Ahead at the Summit Following Shankland's Spot-Kick Sees Off The Hoops
History wasn't made at their home ground, as it's far too early for such achievements. The encounter underlined is that Hearts are at least in with serious opportunity of breaking Scottish football's long-standing title duopoly. That advantage stands at eight points for the maroon side over Celtic, whom they comfortably swatted aside. Try to chase them down.
Turning Point in the Latter Period
Three second-half minutes made the difference, after an opening period that was contested closely. It was remarkable after they extended their advantage was how stress-free the remainder of the game was for the hosts. Alexandros Kyziridis netted the second goal, cutting in from the left before thumping a right-footed shot past the motionless Kasper Schmeichel. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Murray upending the Hearts player for a foul that Shankland slotted home. The Celtic manager appeared frustrated; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
Fans start to rejoice after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against Celtic.
Celtic's Response
Celtic bounced back from Hearts’ rapid start. Dane Murray, who struggled throughout, scored an own goal due to confusion when trying to clear a ball into the box. The Hoops worked their way into the game, the captain Callum McGregor, finishing a Tierney cutback for level terms.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The keeper Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Nygren in the first half, kept out an Arne Engels shot which deflected off Tómas Magnússon. Halkett thwarted a Yamada attempt in the dying moments. They comfortably saw out the game as the clock ticked down. “We remain resolute” has become the popular anthem at Tynecastle. One cannot overlook the buzz.
- Detailed coverage to follow.
