The Jambos Push 8 Points Ahead at the Summit Following Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Kick Overcomes The Hoops
A historic moment didn't occur at Tynecastle, as it's far too early for such achievements. What this match did emphasise is that the Edinburgh club are at least in with strong chance of breaking Scottish football's 40-year title duopoly. They now lead by eight points for Hearts over Celtic, whom they easily dispatched. Try to chase them down.
Key Moments in the Latter Period
Three second-half minutes were key, once the initial exchanges that was contested closely. It was remarkable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how stress-free the rest of the game was for the home side. The Greek winger doubled the lead, moving infield before firing a powerful effort past the static Kasper Schmeichel. More joy followed in the stands, Murray fouling Braga for a foul that Shankland tucked away. Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; challenges abound for him.
The crowd erupted after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against Celtic.
The Visitors' Fightback
Celtic had actually recovered well from the hosts' quick opening. Dane Murray, who endured a torrid afternoon, turned the ball into his own net due to panic when trying to remove a Shankland cross. They gradually fought back into the game, leader Callum McGregor, finishing a Kieran Tierney pull-back for 1-1.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The shot-stopper Alexander Schwolow, who had denied from Nygren in the first half, kept out an Engels shot which deflected off Magnússon. Halkett thwarted a Shin Yamada attempt in added time. They comfortably saw out the game as the clock ticked down. “We remain resolute” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at Tynecastle. One cannot overlook the buzz.
- Complete analysis to follow.
