The Jambos Push Eight Points Clear Clear at Top Following Shankland's Penalty Sees Off The Hoops
We did not witness at their home ground, since it's far too early for such milestones. The encounter underlined is that Hearts are at least in with strong chance of ending Scottish football's long-standing title duopoly. They now lead by eight points for the team over their rivals, whom they easily dispatched. Catch them if you can.
Key Moments in the Latter Period
A crucial three-minute spell proved decisive, following a tight first half that was evenly matched. What was so notable after they extended their advantage was how stress-free the remainder of the game was for the Tynecastle team. Alexandros Kyziridis doubled the lead, moving infield before blasting a strike past the stationary the goalkeeper. Delight increased in the stands, Murray bringing down Cláudio Braga for a foul that the captain converted. Brendan Rodgers appeared frustrated; his problems are mounting.
The crowd erupted after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against the opposition.
The Visitors' Fightback
Celtic had actually recovered well from an early setback. The defender, who had a difficult day, scored an own goal due to panic when trying to clear a Shankland cross. They gradually fought back into the game, leader McGregor, scoring a Kieran Tierney cutback for the equaliser.
Solid Backline
The Hearts goalkeeper Alexander Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Nygren in the first half, blocked an Arne Engels shot which touched Magnússon. Halkett stopped a Shin Yamada attempt in stoppage time. The hosts faced little else as the game concluded. “We stand firm” has become the popular anthem at the stadium. It's hard to ignore the buzz.
- Detailed coverage to follow.