The Tynecastle side Move 8 Points Clear Ahead at Top After Shankland's Penalty Kick Defeats The Hoops

History wasn't made at Tynecastle Park, since it's far too early for such landmarks. What this match did emphasise is that the Edinburgh club have a genuine credible shot of breaking Scottish football's four decade-long dominance by two. Make that an eight-point lead for Hearts over the visitors, whom they decisively beat. Catch them if you can.

Key Moments in the Latter Period

Three second-half minutes proved decisive, following a tight first half that was fiercely fought. It was remarkable after they extended their advantage was how untroubled the rest of the game was for the home side. Alexandros Kyziridis doubled the lead, cutting in from the left before thumping a right-footed shot past the stationary the goalkeeper. More joy followed in the stands, Murray bringing down Cláudio Braga for a foul that Lawrence Shankland converted. Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; he hardly has his troubles to seek.

Supporters began celebrating after Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against Celtic.

The Visitors' Fightback

Celtic had actually recovered well from an early setback. Murray, who endured a torrid afternoon, conceded an own goal due to panic when trying to deal with a Shankland cross. They gradually fought back into the game, the captain Callum McGregor, finishing a Kieran Tierney pull-back for the equaliser.

Stubborn Defence

The shot-stopper Schwolow, who had denied from Nygren in the first half, blocked an Engels shot which deflected off Magnússon. Halkett stopped a Shin Yamada attempt in stoppage time. The hosts faced little else as the clock ticked down. “We shall not be moved” has become the popular anthem at Tynecastle. It's hard to ignore the noise.

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Danielle Carr
Danielle Carr

A tech enthusiast and avid traveler sharing stories and insights from around the world.