The Tynecastle side Extend Eight Points Ahead at the Summit Following Lawrence Shankland's Spot-Kick Sees Off The Hoops
A historic moment didn't occur at their home ground, with it being far too early for such landmarks. This game highlighted is that the Edinburgh club have a genuine credible shot of ending Scottish football's long-standing stranglehold. Make that an eight-point lead for the maroon side over the visitors, whom they decisively beat. Try to chase them down.
Turning Point in the Second Half
A crucial three-minute spell proved decisive, once the initial exchanges that was fiercely fought. The striking aspect after they extended their advantage was how stress-free the remainder of the game was for the Tynecastle team. Kyziridis netted the second goal, drifting inside before blasting a strike past the stationary the goalkeeper. More joy followed in the stands, the Celtic defender fouling Cláudio Braga for a spot-kick that Shankland slotted home. Rodgers looked dejected; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
Fans start to rejoice after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against Celtic.
Celtic's Response
Celtic had actually recovered well from the hosts' quick opening. Murray, who had a difficult day, turned the ball into his own net due to confusion when trying to clear a delivery from Shankland. Celtic edged their way back into the game, skipper Callum McGregor, finishing a Tierney pass for 1-1.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The shot-stopper Alexander Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Nygren in the first half, kept out an Arne Engels shot which touched Magnússon. Craig Halkett thwarted a Yamada attempt in stoppage time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the clock ticked down. “We stand firm” has become the popular anthem at the ground. It's hard to ignore the excitement.
- Full report to follow.