Hearts Extend Eight Points Clear at Top Following Shankland's Penalty Kick Sees Off Celtic
A historic moment didn't occur at Tynecastle, as it's far too early for such landmarks. This game highlighted is that the Edinburgh club possess a real strong chance of breaking Scottish football's long-standing stranglehold. They now lead by eight points for Hearts over their rivals, whom they comfortably swatted aside. Try to chase them down.
Decisive Period in the After the Break
Three second-half minutes made the difference, once the initial exchanges that was evenly matched. What was so notable after they extended their advantage was how comfortable 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, Dane Murray fouling Cláudio Braga for a foul that Shankland tucked away. Rodgers looked dejected; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
The crowd erupted after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against the opposition.
The Visitors' Fightback
Celtic had actually recovered well from the hosts' quick opening. Murray, who had a difficult day, scored an own goal due to panic when trying to clear a Shankland cross. The Hoops worked their way into the game, leader McGregor, scoring a Kieran Tierney cutback for level terms.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The Hearts goalkeeper Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Nygren in the first half, blocked an Engels shot which touched Magnússon. Halkett stopped a Shin Yamada attempt in stoppage time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the game concluded. “We shall not be moved” has become the popular anthem at Tynecastle. It is becoming increasingly difficult the buzz.
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