Hearts Extend 8 Points Ahead Clear at the Summit After Shankland's Spot-Kick Sees Off The Hoops
History wasn't made at their home ground, with it being far too early for such landmarks. What this match did emphasise is that Hearts possess a real strong chance of disrupting Scottish football's four decade-long dominance by two. Make that an eight-point lead for Hearts over Celtic, whom they comfortably swatted aside. The challenge is now for others.
Key Moments in the Second Half
A brief but pivotal phase proved decisive, after an opening period that was contested closely. What was so notable after they extended their advantage was how untroubled the remainder of the game was for the home side. Kyziridis scored Heartsâ second, moving infield before blasting a strike past the motionless the Celtic keeper. More joy followed in the stands, Dane Murray fouling the Hearts player for a penalty that Shankland tucked away. The Celtic manager looked dejected; his problems are mounting.
The crowd erupted after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against Celtic.
Hoops' Reaction
The away side responded positively from Heartsâ rapid start. Murray, who endured a torrid afternoon, turned the ball into his own net due to panic when trying to clear a Shankland cross. They gradually fought back into the game, skipper McGregor, scoring a Kieran Tierney pull-back for the equaliser.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The shot-stopper Alexander Schwolow, who had denied from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, blocked an Engels shot which touched MagnĂșsson. Craig Halkett blocked a Yamada attempt in the dying moments. They comfortably saw out the game as the clock ticked down. âWe shall not be movedâ has become the favoured chant at Tynecastle. One cannot overlook the noise.
- Complete analysis to follow.
