The Tynecastle side Push Eight Points Clear Clear at the Summit Following Shankland's Spot-Kick Sees Off Celtic
A historic moment didn't occur at their home ground, since it's far too early for such landmarks. What this match did emphasise is that Heart of Midlothian have a genuine credible shot of ending Scottish football's 40-year title duopoly. Make that an eight-point lead for the maroon side over Celtic, whom they comfortably swatted aside. The challenge is now for others.
Key Moments in the After the Break
A brief but pivotal phase made the difference, after an opening period that was contested closely. What was so notable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how comfortable the rest of the game was for the hosts. Kyziridis doubled the lead, cutting in from the left before blasting a strike past the stationary Kasper Schmeichel. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, the Celtic defender fouling Braga for a penalty that Lawrence Shankland converted. Brendan Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
The crowd erupted after Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against Celtic.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic bounced back from the hosts' quick opening. The defender, who endured a torrid afternoon, turned the ball into his own net due to haste when trying to clear a ball into the box. They gradually fought back into the game, skipper McGregor, finishing a Kieran Tierney pull-back for 1-1.
Solid Backline
The Hearts goalkeeper Alexander Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, blocked an Arne Engels shot which flicked off Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett thwarted a Yamada attempt in added time. They comfortably saw out the game as the clock ticked down. “We remain resolute” has become the popular anthem at the ground. It's hard to ignore the excitement.
- Detailed coverage to follow.
