Hearts Push 8 Points Ahead Clear at the Summit After Shankland's Spot-Kick Overcomes Celtic

We did not witness at Tynecastle, since it's far too early for such landmarks. What this match did emphasise is that Heart of Midlothian possess a real serious opportunity of breaking Scottish football's four decade-long title duopoly. Make that an eight-point lead for the maroon side over Celtic, whom they easily dispatched. The challenge is now for others.

Turning Point in the Latter Period

Three second-half minutes made the difference, following a tight first half that was evenly matched. What was so notable after they extended their advantage was how untroubled the remainder of the game was for the Tynecastle team. The Greek winger scored Hearts’ second, drifting inside before firing a powerful effort past the static the goalkeeper. More joy followed in the stands, the Celtic defender fouling Braga for a spot-kick that Shankland tucked away. Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; he hardly has his troubles to seek.

Fans start to rejoice after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against Celtic.

The Visitors' Fightback

The away side responded positively from an early setback. Dane Murray, who struggled throughout, scored an own goal due to panic when trying to clear a delivery from Shankland. The Hoops worked their way into the game, skipper McGregor, turning home a Kieran Tierney cutback for the equaliser.

Stubborn Defence

The shot-stopper Schwolow, who had denied from Nygren in the first half, blocked an Engels shot which touched Magnússon. Craig Halkett thwarted a Yamada attempt in added time. The hosts faced little else as the game concluded. “We remain resolute” has become the popular anthem at the ground. It is becoming increasingly difficult the noise.

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