The Tynecastle side Extend Eight Points Ahead in Front at the Pinnacle After Shankland's Spot-Kick Defeats The Hoops
History wasn't made at Tynecastle, as it's far too early for such achievements. What this match did emphasise is that Hearts have a genuine strong chance of ending Scottish football's 40-year stranglehold. They now lead by eight points for the team over the visitors, whom they comfortably swatted aside. The challenge is now for others.
Turning Point in the After the Break
Three second-half minutes made the difference, once the initial exchanges that was evenly matched. What was so notable after they took a 3-1 lead was how stress-free the remainder of the game was for the home side. Kyziridis scored Hearts’ second, moving infield before thumping a right-footed shot past the motionless the goalkeeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, the Celtic defender upending Cláudio Braga for a foul that the captain slotted home. The Celtic manager looked dejected; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
The crowd erupted after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against the opposition.
Celtic's Response
The away side responded positively from an early setback. Dane Murray, who endured a torrid afternoon, turned the ball into his own net due to haste when trying to clear a delivery from Shankland. Celtic edged their way back into the game, leader McGregor, scoring a Tierney cutback for the equaliser.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The Hearts goalkeeper 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 game concluded. “We stand firm” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the ground. It is becoming increasingly difficult the buzz.
- Full report will be available.
