The Jambos Move Eight Points Ahead in Front at Top Following Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Kick Overcomes The Hoops
A historic moment didn't occur at Tynecastle, since it's far too early for such achievements. The encounter underlined is that the Edinburgh club are at least in with strong chance of disrupting Scottish football's long-standing stranglehold. Make that an eight-point lead for Hearts over Celtic, whom they comfortably swatted aside. The challenge is now for others.
Turning Point in the After the Break
Three second-half minutes proved decisive, following a tight first half that was contested closely. What was so notable after they extended their advantage was how untroubled the closing stages of the game was for the home side. The Greek winger doubled the lead, cutting in from the left before thumping a right-footed shot past the motionless the Celtic keeper. More joy followed in the stands, Dane Murray fouling the Hearts player for a spot-kick that Lawrence Shankland converted. Rodgers appeared frustrated; his problems are mounting.
Supporters began celebrating after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against Celtic.
Celtic's Response
The away side responded positively from Hearts’ rapid start. Dane Murray, who struggled throughout, turned the ball into his own net due to haste when trying to remove a Shankland cross. They gradually fought back into the game, skipper Callum McGregor, finishing a Tierney pass for 1-1.
Solid Backline
The keeper Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Nygren in the first half, kept out an Engels shot which flicked off Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett stopped a Yamada attempt in added time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the clock ticked down. “We stand firm” has become the favoured chant at the stadium. It is becoming increasingly difficult the buzz.
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