The Tynecastle side Move 8 Points Clear Ahead at Top Following Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Kick Sees Off The Hoops
A historic moment didn't occur at Tynecastle Park, with it being far too early for such achievements. The encounter underlined is that the Edinburgh club are at least in with serious opportunity of breaking Scottish football's long-standing dominance by two. They now lead by eight points for the team over the visitors, whom they decisively beat. Catch them if you can.
Turning Point in the Second Half
Three second-half minutes proved decisive, following a tight first half that was evenly matched. It was remarkable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how stress-free the closing stages of the game was for the home side. Alexandros Kyziridis doubled the lead, drifting inside before blasting a strike past the motionless the goalkeeper. More joy followed in the stands, Dane Murray bringing down Braga for a foul that Lawrence Shankland converted. Brendan Rodgers appeared frustrated; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
Fans start to rejoice after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against Celtic.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic bounced back from an early setback. The defender, who struggled throughout, conceded an own goal due to panic when trying to deal with a Shankland cross. Celtic edged their way back into the game, leader McGregor, turning home a Tierney cutback for 1-1.
Solid Backline
The Hearts goalkeeper Schwolow, who had denied from Nygren in the first half, kept out an Engels shot which touched Magnússon. Halkett blocked a Yamada attempt in stoppage time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the game concluded. “We stand firm” has become the popular anthem at the stadium. It's hard to ignore the excitement.
- Detailed coverage to follow.
