The Tynecastle side Move Eight Points Clear at the Summit After Shankland's Penalty Sees Off Celtic
A historic moment didn't occur at Tynecastle Park, as it's far too early for such milestones. The encounter underlined is that Hearts are at least in with credible shot of ending Scottish football's four decade-long stranglehold. Make that an eight-point lead for Hearts over the visitors, whom they comfortably swatted aside. Catch them if you can.
Decisive Period in the Second Half
A crucial three-minute spell proved decisive, once the initial exchanges that was fiercely fought. What was so notable after they took a 3-1 lead was how stress-free the closing stages of the game was for the home side. Kyziridis netted the second goal, cutting in from the left before thumping a right-footed shot past the motionless the Celtic keeper. Delight increased in the stands, Murray upending Braga for a spot-kick that Lawrence Shankland slotted home. The Celtic manager cut such a disconsolate figure; challenges abound for him.
Supporters began celebrating after Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against Celtic.
Celtic's Response
Celtic bounced back from the hosts' quick opening. Murray, who had a difficult day, turned the ball into his own net due to haste when trying to remove a delivery from Shankland. Celtic edged their way back into the game, skipper Callum McGregor, finishing a Tierney pass for level terms.
Stubborn Defence
The shot-stopper Alexander Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, blocked an Arne Engels shot which flicked off Magnússon. Craig Halkett stopped a Shin Yamada attempt in added time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the clock ticked down. “We stand firm” has become the popular anthem at the ground. It's hard to ignore the noise.
- Full report to follow.
