The Tynecastle side Extend 8 Points in Front at Top Following Shankland's Penalty Defeats The Hoops
A historic moment didn't occur at Tynecastle, with it being far too early for such landmarks. What this match did emphasise is that the Edinburgh club have a genuine serious opportunity of ending Scottish football's long-standing dominance by two. Make that an eight-point lead for Hearts over the visitors, whom they easily dispatched. Catch them if you can.
Decisive Period in the Latter Period
A brief but pivotal phase proved decisive, following a tight first half that was fiercely fought. It was remarkable after they took a 3-1 lead was how comfortable the remainder of the game was for the hosts. The Greek winger netted the second goal, moving infield before blasting a strike past the motionless the Celtic keeper. Delight increased in the stands, the Celtic defender fouling Braga for a spot-kick that Shankland slotted home. Rodgers looked dejected; challenges abound for him.
Fans start to rejoice after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against Celtic.
The Visitors' Fightback
Celtic had actually recovered well from an early setback. Murray, who struggled throughout, scored an own goal due to confusion when trying to deal with a Shankland cross. They gradually fought back into the game, leader McGregor, finishing a Tierney cutback for 1-1.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The Hearts goalkeeper Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Nygren in the first half, blocked an Arne Engels shot which deflected off Tómas Magnússon. Halkett stopped a Yamada attempt in the dying moments. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the clock ticked down. “We remain resolute” has become the popular anthem at the stadium. It's hard to ignore the buzz.
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