The Tynecastle side Move Eight Points Clear Clear at Top Following Shankland's Spot-Kick Defeats Celtic
We did not witness at their home ground, since it's far too early for such landmarks. What this match did emphasise is that Hearts possess a real strong chance of ending Scottish football's 40-year title duopoly. Make that an eight-point lead for the maroon side over their rivals, whom they comfortably swatted aside. The challenge is now for others.
Decisive Period in the After the Break
A brief but pivotal phase were key, once the initial exchanges that was evenly matched. The striking aspect after they extended their advantage was how stress-free the rest of the game was for the Tynecastle team. Kyziridis doubled the lead, moving infield before firing a powerful effort past the stationary Kasper Schmeichel. Delight increased in the stands, Murray upending Braga for a penalty that Shankland converted. Rodgers appeared frustrated; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
Fans start to rejoice after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against Celtic.
The Visitors' Fightback
The away side responded positively from the hosts' quick opening. Murray, who had a difficult day, turned the ball into his own net due to confusion when trying to remove a Shankland cross. Celtic edged their way back into the game, leader Callum McGregor, turning home a Tierney cutback for the equaliser.
Solid Backline
The shot-stopper Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, kept out an Engels shot which flicked off Magnússon. Craig Halkett stopped a Yamada attempt in added time. The hosts faced little else as the clock ticked down. “We shall not be moved” has become the favoured chant at Tynecastle. It is becoming increasingly difficult the excitement.
- Complete analysis to follow.