The Tynecastle side Move Eight Points Clear Clear at the Summit Following Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Sees Off Celtic
A historic moment didn't occur at Tynecastle Park, since it's far too early for such milestones. This game highlighted is that the Edinburgh club have a genuine strong chance of disrupting Scottish football's four decade-long dominance by two. Make that an eight-point lead for the team over the visitors, whom they easily dispatched. Try to chase them down.
Key Moments in the Second Half
A brief but pivotal phase proved decisive, following a tight first half that was evenly matched. It was remarkable after they extended their advantage was how stress-free the closing stages of the game was for the Tynecastle team. The Greek winger doubled the lead, drifting inside before firing a powerful effort past the stationary the goalkeeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, the Celtic defender bringing down the Hearts player for a penalty that the captain converted. Brendan Rodgers appeared frustrated; his problems are mounting.
Supporters began celebrating after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against the opposition.
The Visitors' Fightback
The away side responded positively from the hosts' quick opening. The defender, who struggled throughout, conceded an own goal due to haste when trying to remove a Shankland cross. Celtic edged their way back into the game, leader Callum McGregor, finishing a Tierney pull-back for level terms.
Solid Backline
The shot-stopper Alexander Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, kept out an Arne Engels shot which flicked off Magnússon. Craig Halkett thwarted a Yamada attempt in stoppage time. They comfortably saw out the game as the minutes passed. “We remain resolute” has become the popular anthem at the ground. It's hard to ignore the excitement.
- Full report to follow.
