The Tynecastle side Extend Eight Points Clear Clear at Top Following Shankland's Penalty Kick Defeats Celtic
A historic moment didn't occur at Tynecastle, as it's far too early for such milestones. The encounter underlined is that Hearts have a genuine serious opportunity of disrupting Scottish football's 40-year dominance by two. Make that an eight-point lead for the team over the visitors, whom they easily dispatched. Catch them if you can.
Key Moments in the Latter Period
A crucial three-minute spell made the difference, 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. Kyziridis doubled the lead, drifting inside before blasting a strike past the motionless the Celtic keeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, the Celtic defender fouling Cláudio Braga for a penalty that the captain slotted home. Rodgers looked dejected; his problems are mounting.
Fans start to rejoice after Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against Celtic.
The Visitors' Fightback
The away side responded positively from the hosts' quick opening. The defender, who struggled throughout, scored an own goal due to panic when trying to clear a delivery from Shankland. Celtic edged their way back into the game, skipper McGregor, turning home a Tierney pull-back for level terms.
Solid Backline
The Hearts goalkeeper Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Nygren in the first half, parried an Engels shot which deflected off Tómas Magnússon. Halkett stopped a Yamada attempt in added time. The hosts faced little else as the clock ticked down. “We stand firm” has become the popular anthem at the stadium. One cannot overlook the buzz.
- Full report will be available.
