The Jambos Extend 8 Points Ahead Ahead at the Pinnacle After Shankland's Spot-Kick Sees Off Celtic
A historic moment didn't occur at Tynecastle, as it's far too early for such landmarks. The encounter underlined is that Hearts have a genuine strong chance of disrupting Scottish football's 40-year dominance by two. That advantage stands at eight points for Hearts over the visitors, whom they comfortably swatted aside. The challenge is now for others.
Decisive Period in the Latter Period
Three second-half minutes were key, following a tight first half that was evenly matched. It was remarkable after they extended their advantage was how stress-free the remainder of the game was for the Tynecastle team. The Greek winger scored Heartsâ second, cutting in from the left before blasting a strike past the motionless Kasper Schmeichel. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, the Celtic defender bringing down Braga for a foul that the captain slotted home. Brendan Rodgers appeared frustrated; challenges abound for him.
Fans start to rejoice after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against Celtic.
The Visitors' Fightback
The away side responded positively from Heartsâ rapid start. Dane Murray, who had a difficult day, scored an own goal due to panic when trying to deal with a ball into the box. They gradually fought back into the game, skipper Callum McGregor, turning home a Kieran Tierney cutback for 1-1.
Stubborn Defence
The shot-stopper Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Nygren in the first half, parried an Arne Engels shot which flicked off TĂłmas MagnĂșsson. Craig Halkett stopped a Yamada attempt in added time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the minutes passed. âWe remain resoluteâ has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at Tynecastle. It's hard to ignore the noise.
- Complete analysis coming soon.