The Tynecastle side Extend Eight Points Clear at Top After Shankland's Penalty Defeats Celtic
History wasn't made at Tynecastle Park, with it being far too early for such milestones. This game highlighted is that the Edinburgh club possess a real strong chance of breaking Scottish football's long-standing title duopoly. Make that an eight-point lead for Hearts over Celtic, whom they comfortably swatted aside. Catch them if you can.
Key Moments in the After the Break
Three second-half minutes made the difference, once the initial exchanges that was fiercely fought. The striking aspect after they extended their advantage was how stress-free the closing stages of the game was for the home side. The Greek winger scored Hearts’ second, cutting in from the left before firing a powerful effort past the stationary the Celtic keeper. More joy followed in the stands, the Celtic defender fouling Braga for a spot-kick that Shankland converted. Brendan Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; his problems are mounting.
Supporters began celebrating after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against the opposition.
Celtic's Response
Celtic had actually recovered well from the hosts' quick opening. Dane Murray, who had a difficult day, turned the ball into his own net due to haste when trying to remove a delivery from Shankland. They gradually fought back into the game, skipper Callum McGregor, scoring a Tierney pass for 1-1.
Stubborn Defence
The Hearts goalkeeper Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, blocked an Arne Engels shot which touched Magnússon. Craig Halkett stopped a Shin Yamada attempt in stoppage time. The hosts faced little else as the game concluded. “We shall not be moved” has become the favoured chant at the ground. It's hard to ignore the noise.
- Full report will be available.
