The Tynecastle side Extend 8 Points Ahead in Front at Top After Shankland's Penalty Kick Sees Off Celtic
We did not witness at Tynecastle, since it's far too early for such landmarks. This game highlighted is that Heart of Midlothian possess a real strong chance of breaking Scottish football's four decade-long title duopoly. Make that an eight-point lead for Hearts over the visitors, whom they comfortably swatted aside. Try to chase them down.
Decisive Period in the Second Half
Three second-half minutes made the difference, following a tight first half that was evenly matched. It was remarkable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how comfortable the remainder of the game was for the home side. The Greek winger netted the second goal, drifting inside before blasting a strike past the stationary the goalkeeper. Delight increased in the stands, Murray bringing down Cláudio Braga for a foul that Lawrence Shankland converted. Brendan Rodgers looked dejected; challenges abound for him.
Fans start to rejoice after Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against the opposition.
Celtic's Response
Celtic bounced back from the hosts' quick opening. Murray, who had a difficult day, conceded an own goal due to confusion when trying to deal with a delivery from Shankland. They gradually fought back into the game, leader Callum McGregor, scoring a Tierney cutback for 1-1.
Solid Backline
The keeper Alexander Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Nygren in the first half, kept out an Arne Engels shot which flicked off Magnússon. Halkett thwarted a Shin Yamada attempt in added time. They comfortably saw out the game as the clock ticked down. “We stand firm” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the ground. It's hard to ignore the noise.
- Full report to follow.