The Jambos Extend Eight Points Ahead Ahead at the Pinnacle After Shankland's Penalty Kick Overcomes Celtic
We did not witness at their home ground, with it being far too early for such milestones. What this match did emphasise is that the Edinburgh club have a genuine credible shot of ending Scottish football's 40-year stranglehold. Make that an eight-point lead for Hearts over the visitors, whom they decisively beat. The challenge is now for others.
Key Moments in the After the Break
A brief but pivotal phase made the difference, after an opening period that was evenly matched. What was so notable after they extended their advantage was how untroubled the closing stages of the game was for the Tynecastle team. The Greek winger doubled the lead, moving infield before firing a powerful effort past the stationary Kasper Schmeichel. More joy followed in the stands, Murray upending Braga for a spot-kick that Lawrence Shankland tucked away. Brendan Rodgers appeared frustrated; his problems are mounting.
The crowd erupted after Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against Celtic.
The Visitors' Fightback
Celtic had actually recovered well from the hosts' quick opening. Murray, who endured a torrid afternoon, scored an own goal due to haste when trying to deal with a ball into the box. They gradually fought back into the game, skipper McGregor, finishing a Tierney cutback for 1-1.
Stubborn Defence
The shot-stopper Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, kept out an Arne Engels shot which flicked off MagnĆŗsson. Halkett thwarted a Shin Yamada attempt in stoppage time. The hosts faced little else as the minutes passed. āWe remain resoluteā has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the stadium. It is becoming increasingly difficult the excitement.
- Full report will be available.
