Hearts Extend 8 Points Ahead in Front at the Summit Following Shankland's Penalty Sees Off Celtic

History wasn't made at their home ground, as it's far too early for such landmarks. What this match did emphasise is that Hearts possess a real serious opportunity of disrupting Scottish football's long-standing dominance by two. That advantage stands at eight points for the team over Celtic, whom they easily dispatched. The challenge is now for others.

Decisive Period in the After the Break

A crucial three-minute spell made the difference, following a tight first half that was contested closely. The striking aspect after they extended their advantage was how untroubled the closing stages of the game was for the hosts. The Greek winger doubled the lead, drifting inside before blasting a strike past the static the Celtic keeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Dane Murray fouling Braga for a foul that the captain tucked away. Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; challenges abound for him.

The crowd erupted after Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against Celtic.

Hoops' Reaction

The away side responded positively from the hosts' quick opening. Dane Murray, who had a difficult day, scored an own goal due to panic when trying to deal with a delivery from Shankland. The Hoops worked their way into the game, the captain Callum McGregor, finishing a Tierney pass for 1-1.

Hearts' Defensive Resilience

The Hearts goalkeeper Alexander Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, parried an Engels shot which touched Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett blocked a Shin Yamada attempt in stoppage time. The hosts faced little else as the clock ticked down. “We remain resolute” has become the popular anthem at Tynecastle. It is becoming increasingly difficult the buzz.

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