The Tynecastle side Move Eight Points Ahead Clear at Top After Shankland's Spot-Kick Sees Off Celtic
A historic moment didn't occur at Tynecastle Park, since it's far too early for such landmarks. What this match did emphasise is that Heart of Midlothian possess a real credible shot of ending Scottish football's four decade-long title duopoly. They now lead by eight points for the maroon side over their rivals, whom they comfortably swatted aside. Try to chase them down.
Decisive Period in the Second Half
A brief but pivotal phase were key, after an opening period that was contested closely. The striking aspect after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how untroubled the remainder 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 static Kasper Schmeichel. Delight increased in the stands, Dane Murray bringing down Cláudio Braga for a foul that the captain slotted home. The Celtic manager appeared frustrated; his problems are mounting.
Fans start to rejoice after Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against Celtic.
The Visitors' Fightback
Celtic had actually recovered well from an early setback. Dane Murray, who struggled throughout, scored an own goal due to confusion when trying to remove a delivery from Shankland. They gradually fought back into the game, the captain Callum McGregor, turning home a Tierney cutback for level terms.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The keeper Schwolow, who had denied from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, parried an Arne Engels shot which touched Magnússon. Craig Halkett stopped a Yamada attempt in added time. They comfortably saw out the game as the minutes passed. “We stand firm” has become the favoured chant at the ground. It's hard to ignore the excitement.
- Complete analysis coming soon.