The Jambos Extend Eight Points Ahead Clear at the Pinnacle After Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Sees Off The Hoops
A historic moment didn't occur at Tynecastle Park, as it's far too early for such landmarks. What this match did emphasise is that Heart of Midlothian possess a real serious opportunity of breaking Scottish football's four decade-long stranglehold. Make that an eight-point lead for Hearts over the visitors, whom they easily dispatched. The challenge is now for others.
Key Moments in the After the Break
A brief but pivotal phase made the difference, once the initial exchanges that was evenly matched. The striking aspect after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how stress-free the remainder of the game was for the hosts. The Greek winger netted the second goal, moving infield before thumping a right-footed shot past the motionless Kasper Schmeichel. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Murray fouling the Hearts player for a penalty that Shankland 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.
The Visitors' Fightback
The away side responded positively from the hosts' quick opening. Murray, who had a difficult day, scored an own goal due to panic when trying to remove a ball into the box. Celtic edged their way back into the game, skipper McGregor, turning home a Tierney pull-back for 1-1.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The keeper Alexander Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Nygren in the first half, blocked an Engels shot which deflected off Magnússon. Halkett thwarted a Yamada attempt in stoppage time. The hosts faced little else as the minutes passed. “We stand firm” has become the popular anthem at the stadium. It's hard to ignore the buzz.
- Detailed coverage coming soon.
