The Jambos Move Eight Points Clear in Front at the Pinnacle Following Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Kick Sees Off The Hoops
History wasn't made at their home ground, with it being far too early for such achievements. The encounter underlined is that Heart of Midlothian have a genuine serious opportunity of disrupting Scottish football's four decade-long title duopoly. That advantage stands at eight points for Hearts over the visitors, whom they decisively beat. The challenge is now for others.
Key Moments in the Second Half
A crucial three-minute spell made the difference, after an opening period that was evenly matched. The striking aspect after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how comfortable the remainder of the game was for the Tynecastle team. The Greek winger netted the second goal, drifting inside before blasting a strike past the motionless Kasper Schmeichel. Delight increased in the stands, Murray upending Cláudio Braga for a foul that Shankland tucked away. Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
Fans start to rejoice after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against Celtic.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic bounced back from an early setback. The defender, who endured a torrid afternoon, turned the ball into his own net due to confusion when trying to remove a ball into the box. They gradually fought back into the game, leader Callum McGregor, turning home a Kieran Tierney pass for level terms.
Solid Backline
The Hearts goalkeeper Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Nygren in the first half, blocked an Engels shot which flicked off Magnússon. Halkett thwarted a Shin Yamada attempt in stoppage time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the minutes passed. “We remain resolute” has become the favoured chant at the ground. One cannot overlook the buzz.
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