The Tynecastle side Extend Eight Points Ahead Clear at Top Following Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Sees Off The Hoops
We did not witness at their home ground, as it's far too early for such achievements. What this match did emphasise is that the Edinburgh club are at least in with strong chance of breaking Scottish football's 40-year title duopoly. That advantage stands at eight points for the team over their rivals, whom they decisively beat. Try to chase them down.
Key Moments in the Latter Period
A brief but pivotal phase proved decisive, once the initial exchanges that was fiercely fought. The striking aspect after they extended their advantage was how stress-free the rest of the game was for the home side. The Greek winger scored Hearts’ second, drifting inside before thumping a right-footed shot past the motionless Kasper Schmeichel. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Murray fouling the Hearts player for a spot-kick that the captain slotted home. Brendan Rodgers looked dejected; challenges abound for him.
Supporters began celebrating after Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against Celtic.
Celtic's Response
The away side responded positively from an early setback. Murray, who had a difficult day, conceded an own goal due to haste when trying to remove a Shankland cross. The Hoops worked their way into the game, the captain McGregor, finishing a Kieran Tierney cutback for the equaliser.
Solid Backline
The shot-stopper Alexander Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Nygren in the first half, parried an Engels shot which flicked off Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett thwarted a Shin Yamada attempt in added 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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