Hearts Extend Eight Points Ahead at the Summit Following Shankland's Spot-Kick Defeats The Hoops
History wasn't made at Tynecastle Park, with it being far too early for such landmarks. The encounter underlined is that the Edinburgh club possess a real serious opportunity of breaking Scottish football's four decade-long title duopoly. That advantage stands at eight points for the team over the visitors, whom they easily dispatched. Catch them if you can.
Key Moments in the After the Break
Three second-half minutes made the difference, following a tight first half that was evenly matched. The striking aspect after they extended their advantage was how untroubled the remainder of the game was for the hosts. The Greek winger netted the second goal, drifting inside before firing a powerful effort past the motionless Kasper Schmeichel. Delight increased in the stands, the Celtic defender bringing down Braga for a penalty that the captain slotted home. The Celtic manager appeared frustrated; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
Supporters began celebrating after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against Celtic.
The Visitors' Fightback
Celtic had actually recovered well from Hearts’ rapid start. Murray, who struggled throughout, conceded an own goal due to confusion when trying to remove a delivery from Shankland. The Hoops worked their way into the game, the captain McGregor, finishing a Tierney cutback for level terms.
Stubborn Defence
The Hearts goalkeeper Schwolow, who had denied from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, blocked an Arne Engels shot which flicked off Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett stopped a Yamada attempt in stoppage time. The hosts faced little else as the game concluded. “We remain resolute” has become the favoured chant at Tynecastle. It is becoming increasingly difficult the buzz.
- Complete analysis to follow.
