Hearts Extend 8 Points Ahead Ahead at Top Following Shankland's Spot-Kick Defeats The Hoops
We did not witness at Tynecastle Park, as it's far too early for such landmarks. What this match did emphasise is that the Edinburgh club possess a real credible shot of disrupting Scottish football's 40-year stranglehold. Make that an eight-point lead for the team over the visitors, whom they easily dispatched. Catch them if you can.
Decisive Period in the Second Half
A brief but pivotal phase proved decisive, following a tight first half that was fiercely fought. The striking aspect after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how comfortable the rest of the game was for the Tynecastle team. Alexandros Kyziridis doubled the lead, cutting in from the left before firing a powerful effort past the static Kasper Schmeichel. More joy followed in the stands, the Celtic defender fouling the Hearts player for a penalty that Shankland slotted home. The Celtic manager appeared frustrated; his problems are mounting.
The crowd erupted after Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against the opposition.
The Visitors' Fightback
Celtic bounced back from Hearts’ rapid start. Dane Murray, who endured a torrid afternoon, scored an own goal due to confusion when trying to clear a delivery from Shankland. The Hoops worked their way into the game, leader Callum McGregor, turning home a Tierney cutback for the equaliser.
Solid Backline
The keeper Alexander Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, blocked an Arne Engels shot which touched Magnússon. Halkett blocked a Shin Yamada attempt in the dying moments. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the minutes passed. “We stand firm” has become the favoured chant at Tynecastle. It is becoming increasingly difficult the buzz.
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