The Tynecastle side Move Eight Points Ahead at the Summit After Shankland's Spot-Kick Sees Off The Hoops
We did not witness at Tynecastle Park, with it being far too early for such achievements. This game highlighted is that the Edinburgh club are at least in with strong chance of ending Scottish football's 40-year stranglehold. That advantage stands at eight points for the maroon side over their rivals, whom they decisively beat. Catch them if you can.
Key Moments in the Latter Period
A crucial three-minute spell proved decisive, after an opening period that was fiercely fought. What was so notable after they took a 3-1 lead was how stress-free the closing stages of the game was for the home side. The Greek winger doubled the lead, drifting inside before firing a powerful effort past the stationary Kasper Schmeichel. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Dane Murray upending Braga for a foul that the captain tucked away. Rodgers looked dejected; his problems are mounting.
Supporters began celebrating after Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against Celtic.
The Visitors' Fightback
The away side responded positively from an early setback. Murray, who had a difficult day, turned the ball into his own net due to confusion when trying to remove a ball into the box. They gradually fought back into the game, skipper McGregor, finishing a Kieran Tierney pass for 1-1.
Solid Backline
The shot-stopper Alexander Schwolow, who had denied from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, parried an Engels shot which flicked off Magnússon. Craig Halkett blocked a Yamada attempt in stoppage time. They comfortably saw out the game as the minutes passed. “We stand firm” has become the popular anthem at the stadium. It is becoming increasingly difficult the noise.
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