The Tynecastle side Move 8 Points Ahead at Top Following Shankland's Penalty Overcomes Celtic
We did not witness at their home ground, as it's far too early for such milestones. This game highlighted is that the Edinburgh club have a genuine credible shot of ending Scottish football's long-standing dominance by two. They now lead by eight points for the maroon side over their rivals, whom they decisively beat. Try to chase them down.
Turning Point in the Second Half
Three second-half minutes made the difference, after an opening period that was fiercely fought. What was so notable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how comfortable the remainder of the game was for the home side. Kyziridis doubled the lead, drifting inside before blasting a strike past the stationary Kasper Schmeichel. More joy followed in the stands, Murray bringing down Cláudio Braga for a foul that Shankland converted. Brendan Rodgers appeared frustrated; his problems are mounting.
Fans start to rejoice after Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against the opposition.
Celtic's Response
The away side responded positively from an early setback. Murray, who endured a torrid afternoon, turned the ball into his own net due to confusion when trying to remove a delivery from Shankland. Celtic edged their way back into the game, leader McGregor, scoring a Tierney pass for 1-1.
Solid Backline
The shot-stopper Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Nygren in the first half, parried an Engels shot which flicked off Magnússon. Craig Halkett stopped a Shin Yamada attempt in the dying moments. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the game concluded. “We remain resolute” has become the popular anthem at the ground. It is becoming increasingly difficult the buzz.
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