The Tynecastle side Extend Eight Points Clear in Front at the Summit Following Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Defeats The Hoops
History wasn't made at Tynecastle Park, as it's far too early for such landmarks. What this match did emphasise is that the Edinburgh club are at least in with strong chance of ending Scottish football's four decade-long dominance by two. Make that an eight-point lead for the team over Celtic, whom they comfortably swatted aside. Catch them if you can.
Key Moments in the Latter Period
A brief but pivotal phase were key, following a tight first half that was fiercely fought. It was remarkable after they extended their advantage was how stress-free the closing stages of the game was for the hosts. Alexandros Kyziridis netted the second goal, moving infield before blasting a strike past the motionless Kasper Schmeichel. Delight increased in the stands, Murray bringing down the Hearts player for a spot-kick that Shankland tucked away. The Celtic manager appeared frustrated; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
Fans start to rejoice after Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against the opposition.
The Visitors' Fightback
Celtic bounced back from an early setback. Dane Murray, who struggled throughout, turned the ball into his own net due to panic when trying to deal with a Shankland cross. They gradually fought back into the game, the captain McGregor, scoring a Kieran Tierney pull-back for 1-1.
Stubborn Defence
The keeper Alexander Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Nygren in the first half, parried an Engels shot which flicked off Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett stopped a Shin Yamada attempt in added time. The hosts faced little else as the game concluded. “We remain resolute” has become the popular anthem at Tynecastle. It is becoming increasingly difficult the excitement.
- Detailed coverage to follow.