The Tynecastle side Move 8 Points Ahead Clear at the Pinnacle Following Shankland's Penalty Overcomes Celtic
A historic moment didn't occur at their home ground, as it's far too early for such landmarks. What this match did emphasise is that the Edinburgh club possess a real credible shot of disrupting Scottish football's 40-year dominance by two. They now lead by eight points for Hearts over their rivals, whom they comfortably swatted aside. The challenge is now for others.
Turning Point in the Latter Period
Three second-half minutes were key, after an opening period that was contested closely. It was remarkable after they extended their advantage was how stress-free the closing stages of the game was for the Tynecastle team. Alexandros Kyziridis netted the second goal, moving infield before firing a powerful effort past the stationary the goalkeeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Murray fouling Braga for a penalty that the captain converted. Brendan Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; his problems are mounting.
The crowd erupted after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against Celtic.
Celtic's Response
Celtic had actually recovered well from an early setback. Dane Murray, who endured a torrid afternoon, conceded an own goal due to panic when trying to remove a ball into the box. They gradually fought back into the game, skipper Callum McGregor, turning home a Tierney pull-back for 1-1.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The keeper Schwolow, who had denied from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, blocked an Arne Engels shot which flicked off Tómas Magnússon. Halkett blocked 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 excitement.
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