The Jambos Push Eight Points Clear Clear at the Pinnacle Following Shankland's Spot-Kick Defeats Celtic
A historic moment didn't occur at their home ground, as it's far too early for such achievements. What this match did emphasise is that the Edinburgh club have a genuine credible shot of disrupting Scottish football's four decade-long dominance by two. Make that an eight-point lead for the team over Celtic, whom they comfortably swatted aside. Catch them if you can.
Turning Point in the After the Break
A brief but pivotal phase made the difference, following a tight first half that was evenly matched. It was remarkable after they extended their advantage was how comfortable the remainder of the game was for the Tynecastle team. The Greek winger netted the second goal, drifting inside before thumping a right-footed shot past the motionless Kasper Schmeichel. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Dane Murray upending the Hearts player for a penalty that Lawrence Shankland slotted home. The Celtic manager cut such a disconsolate figure; challenges abound for him.
Fans start to rejoice after Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against the opposition.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic had actually recovered well from the hosts' quick opening. Murray, who had a difficult day, scored an own goal due to confusion when trying to remove a delivery from Shankland. They gradually fought back into the game, leader Callum McGregor, turning home a Kieran Tierney cutback for level terms.
Solid Backline
The keeper Alexander Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, kept out an Arne Engels shot which deflected off Tómas Magnússon. Halkett thwarted a Shin Yamada attempt in the dying moments. The hosts faced little else as the game concluded. “We shall not be moved” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at Tynecastle. It's hard to ignore the buzz.
- Full report coming soon.
