The Jambos Extend Eight Points in Front at the Pinnacle Following Shankland's Spot-Kick Sees Off The Glasgow Giants
History wasn't made at Tynecastle, as it's far too early for such achievements. This game highlighted is that Hearts are at least in with strong chance of ending Scottish football's four decade-long title duopoly. They now lead by eight points for the maroon side over Celtic, whom they comfortably swatted aside. Try to chase them down.
Key Moments in the After the Break
A crucial three-minute spell proved decisive, after an opening period that was contested closely. The striking aspect after they extended their advantage was how stress-free the rest of the game was for the home side. The Greek winger scored Hearts’ second, moving infield before thumping a right-footed shot past the stationary the Celtic keeper. Delight increased in the stands, Murray bringing down Cláudio Braga for a foul that Shankland tucked away. Rodgers looked dejected; challenges abound for him.
The crowd erupted after Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against Celtic.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic had actually recovered well from Hearts’ rapid start. Murray, who had a difficult day, turned the ball into his own net due to haste when trying to deal with a ball into the box. Celtic edged their way back into the game, leader McGregor, turning home a Tierney pull-back for the equaliser.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The keeper Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, blocked an Arne Engels shot which deflected off Tómas Magnússon. Halkett blocked a Yamada attempt in stoppage time. The hosts faced little else as the clock ticked down. “We remain resolute” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at Tynecastle. It's hard to ignore the excitement.
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