Hearts Move 8 Points Ahead in Front at the Pinnacle After Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Overcomes The Hoops

A historic moment didn't occur at Tynecastle, as it's far too early for such milestones. What this match did emphasise is that the Edinburgh club are at least in with serious opportunity of ending Scottish football's long-standing title duopoly. They now lead by eight points for the team over Celtic, whom they decisively beat. The challenge is now for others.

Decisive Period in the After the Break

A crucial three-minute spell were key, after an opening period that was fiercely fought. It was remarkable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how stress-free the rest of the game was for the hosts. Alexandros Kyziridis scored Hearts’ second, moving infield before blasting a strike past the motionless the goalkeeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, the Celtic defender fouling Cláudio Braga for a penalty that Shankland slotted home. Brendan 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. Murray, who had a difficult day, scored an own goal due to haste when trying to deal with a Shankland cross. They gradually fought back into the game, leader McGregor, scoring a Kieran Tierney cutback for 1-1.

Hearts' Defensive Resilience

The shot-stopper Alexander Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, parried an Arne Engels shot which touched Magnússon. Craig Halkett blocked a Yamada attempt in the dying moments. They comfortably saw out the game as the minutes passed. “We shall not be moved” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the ground. It is becoming increasingly difficult the excitement.

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