Hearts Move 8 Points Clear in Front at the Summit Following Shankland's Penalty Kick Defeats Celtic
We did not witness at Tynecastle, as it's far too early for such milestones. The encounter underlined is that the Edinburgh club possess a real serious opportunity of ending Scottish football's 40-year title duopoly. Make that an eight-point lead for the maroon side over their rivals, whom they decisively beat. Try to chase them down.
Decisive Period in the After the Break
A crucial three-minute spell made the difference, following a tight first half that was fiercely fought. What was so notable after they extended their advantage was how untroubled the remainder of the game was for the home side. Kyziridis netted the second goal, cutting in from the left before firing a powerful effort past the stationary Kasper Schmeichel. More joy followed in the stands, the Celtic defender fouling Cláudio Braga for a foul that the captain converted. Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; challenges abound for him.
The crowd erupted after Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against Celtic.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic bounced back from an early setback. Dane Murray, who endured a torrid afternoon, conceded an own goal due to haste when trying to remove a ball into the box. They gradually fought back into the game, the captain Callum McGregor, finishing a Tierney pull-back for level terms.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The Hearts goalkeeper Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, blocked an Engels shot which deflected off Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett blocked a Shin Yamada attempt in the dying moments. The hosts faced little else as the minutes passed. “We shall not be moved” has become the popular anthem at the ground. It is becoming increasingly difficult the buzz.
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