The Tynecastle side Extend Eight Points Ahead Clear at the Pinnacle After Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Kick Defeats The Hoops
A historic moment didn't occur at their home ground, since it's far too early for such milestones. What this match did emphasise is that the Edinburgh club have a genuine serious opportunity of ending Scottish football's 40-year dominance by two. They now lead by eight points for the maroon side over their rivals, whom they easily dispatched. Catch them if you can.
Turning Point in the Latter Period
A crucial three-minute spell made the difference, following a tight first half that was contested closely. The striking aspect after they took a 3-1 lead was how stress-free the remainder of the game was for the home side. The Greek winger netted the second goal, cutting in from the left before firing a powerful effort past the stationary Kasper Schmeichel. More joy followed in the stands, Dane Murray upending Braga for a foul that the captain tucked away. Rodgers appeared frustrated; his problems are mounting.
The crowd erupted after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against the opposition.
Celtic's Response
Celtic bounced back from an early setback. The defender, who endured a torrid afternoon, conceded an own goal due to haste when trying to clear a Shankland cross. They gradually fought back into the game, leader Callum McGregor, turning home a Kieran Tierney pass for 1-1.
Stubborn Defence
The keeper Alexander Schwolow, who had denied from Nygren in the first half, parried an Engels shot which touched Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett thwarted a Yamada attempt in stoppage time. The hosts faced little else as the clock ticked down. “We remain resolute” has become the popular anthem at the ground. One cannot overlook the buzz.
- Complete analysis to follow.
