The Jambos Extend 8 Points Ahead at Top Following Shankland's Penalty Defeats The Hoops
History wasn't made at Tynecastle, as it's far too early for such milestones. This game highlighted is that Hearts are at least in with serious opportunity of ending Scottish football's 40-year stranglehold. They now lead by eight points for the maroon side over the visitors, whom they easily dispatched. Catch them if you can.
Key Moments in the Second Half
A crucial three-minute spell were key, after an opening period that was fiercely fought. What was so notable after they took a 3-1 lead was how stress-free the remainder of the game was for the home side. The Greek winger doubled the lead, cutting in from the left before thumping a right-footed shot past the stationary the Celtic keeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Dane Murray bringing down the Hearts player for a spot-kick that Lawrence Shankland slotted home. The Celtic manager appeared frustrated; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
The crowd erupted after Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against the opposition.
Celtic's Response
Celtic had actually recovered well from an early setback. Dane Murray, who had a difficult day, turned the ball into his own net due to panic when trying to remove a delivery from Shankland. Celtic edged their way back into the game, leader McGregor, finishing a Kieran Tierney pull-back for 1-1.
Solid Backline
The shot-stopper Alexander Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Nygren in the first half, kept out an Engels shot which touched Magnússon. Craig Halkett stopped a Shin Yamada attempt in stoppage time. The hosts faced little else as the clock ticked down. “We stand firm” has become the favoured chant at Tynecastle. One cannot overlook the noise.
- Complete analysis to follow.