The Jambos Move 8 Points Ahead at the Pinnacle Following Shankland's Spot-Kick Sees Off The Hoops
A historic moment didn't occur at Tynecastle Park, with it being far too early for such achievements. This game highlighted is that Heart of Midlothian have a genuine strong chance of ending Scottish football's long-standing title duopoly. They now lead by eight points for the maroon side over Celtic, whom they easily dispatched. Try to chase them down.
Key Moments in the Second Half
A brief but pivotal phase made the difference, after an opening period that was fiercely fought. What was so notable after they took a 3-1 lead was how untroubled the closing stages of the game was for the Tynecastle team. The Greek winger doubled the lead, cutting in from the left before blasting a strike past the motionless Kasper Schmeichel. More joy followed in the stands, Dane Murray bringing down Cláudio Braga for a foul that Shankland converted. Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; challenges abound for him.
Fans start to rejoice after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against the opposition.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic bounced back from an early setback. Murray, who struggled throughout, turned the ball into his own net due to confusion when trying to deal with a Shankland cross. The Hoops worked their way into the game, skipper Callum McGregor, turning home a Tierney pull-back for level terms.
Stubborn Defence
The shot-stopper Alexander Schwolow, who had denied from Nygren in the first half, blocked an Arne Engels shot which deflected off Tómas Magnússon. Halkett blocked a Yamada attempt in stoppage time. The hosts faced little else as the game concluded. “We stand firm” has become the popular anthem at the stadium. It is becoming increasingly difficult the buzz.
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