The Tynecastle side Move 8 Points Ahead in Front at Top After Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Defeats The Glasgow Giants
History wasn't made at their home ground, with it being far too early for such milestones. What this match did emphasise is that the Edinburgh club have a genuine credible shot of breaking Scottish football's long-standing title duopoly. Make that an eight-point lead for the maroon side over their rivals, whom they decisively beat. The challenge is now for others.
Decisive Period in the Latter Period
Three second-half minutes proved decisive, after an opening period that was fiercely fought. The striking aspect after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how stress-free the rest of the game was for the home side. Kyziridis netted the second goal, moving infield before firing a powerful effort past the stationary Kasper Schmeichel. More joy followed in the stands, Murray upending Braga for a spot-kick that Lawrence Shankland tucked away. Brendan Rodgers appeared frustrated; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
Fans start to rejoice after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against Celtic.
Celtic's Response
The away side responded positively from the hosts' quick opening. Murray, who endured a torrid afternoon, turned the ball into his own net due to haste when trying to deal with a Shankland cross. Celtic edged their way back into the game, skipper Callum McGregor, finishing a Tierney pull-back for level terms.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The shot-stopper Schwolow, who had denied from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, kept out an Arne Engels shot which flicked off Tรณmas Magnรบsson. Halkett blocked a Shin Yamada attempt in the dying moments. The hosts faced little else as the minutes passed. โWe shall not be movedโ has become the favoured chant at Tynecastle. It's hard to ignore the noise.
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