The Tynecastle side Push 8 Points Clear at the Pinnacle Following Shankland's Spot-Kick Overcomes The Hoops
We did not witness at Tynecastle Park, as it's far too early for such milestones. What this match did emphasise is that Heart of Midlothian have a genuine strong chance of breaking Scottish football's 40-year dominance by two. Make that an eight-point lead for Hearts over the visitors, whom they decisively beat. Try to chase them down.
Decisive Period in the Latter Period
Three second-half minutes were key, following a tight first half that was contested closely. It was remarkable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how stress-free the closing stages of the game was for the hosts. 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 fouling the Hearts player for a spot-kick that the captain tucked away. The Celtic manager looked dejected; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
Fans start to rejoice after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against Celtic.
The Visitors' Fightback
Celtic bounced back from the hosts' quick opening. The defender, who had a difficult day, scored an own goal due to confusion when trying to clear a delivery from Shankland. Celtic edged their way back into the game, skipper Callum McGregor, turning home a Tierney pass for level terms.
Solid Backline
The Hearts goalkeeper Alexander Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Nygren in the first half, kept out an Engels shot which deflected off Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett blocked a Shin Yamada attempt in added time. They comfortably saw out the game as the minutes passed. “We shall not be moved” has become the popular anthem at Tynecastle. One cannot overlook the noise.
- Full report coming soon.
