The Jambos Move 8 Points in Front at Top After Shankland's Penalty Kick Defeats The Hoops
History wasn't made at Tynecastle, with it being far too early for such achievements. The encounter underlined is that Hearts possess a real serious opportunity of disrupting Scottish football's 40-year title duopoly. Make that an eight-point lead for the team over Celtic, whom they decisively beat. Catch them if you can.
Key Moments in the After the Break
A crucial three-minute spell made the difference, after an opening period that was contested closely. What was so notable after they extended their advantage was how untroubled the remainder of the game was for the home side. Alexandros Kyziridis doubled the lead, drifting inside before blasting a strike past the static Kasper Schmeichel. Delight increased in the stands, Murray upending the Hearts player for a spot-kick that Shankland slotted home. The Celtic manager cut such a disconsolate figure; his problems are mounting.
Supporters began celebrating after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against Celtic.
The Visitors' Fightback
The away side responded positively from Hearts’ rapid start. Dane Murray, who endured a torrid afternoon, turned the ball into his own net due to haste when trying to remove a ball into the box. They gradually fought back into the game, leader Callum McGregor, scoring a Tierney pass for the equaliser.
Stubborn Defence
The Hearts goalkeeper Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Nygren in the first half, parried an Arne Engels shot which flicked off Magnússon. Halkett stopped a Shin Yamada attempt in stoppage time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the game concluded. “We shall not be moved” has become the favoured chant at the stadium. It's hard to ignore the noise.
- Detailed coverage to follow.
