The Jambos Move Eight Points Clear Clear at the Summit After Shankland's Penalty Kick Defeats The Hoops
History wasn't made at Tynecastle, since it's far too early for such milestones. This game highlighted is that Hearts possess a real credible shot of ending Scottish football's 40-year dominance by two. That advantage stands at eight points for the maroon side over Celtic, whom they decisively beat. The challenge is now for others.
Key Moments in the Second Half
A brief but pivotal phase proved decisive, after an opening period that was contested closely. It was remarkable after they took a 3-1 lead was how stress-free the closing stages of the game was for the Tynecastle team. The Greek winger doubled the lead, drifting inside before firing a powerful effort past the stationary the goalkeeper. More joy followed in the stands, Murray upending Cláudio Braga for a foul that Shankland tucked away. Rodgers appeared frustrated; his problems are mounting.
The crowd erupted after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against the opposition.
The Visitors' Fightback
The away side responded positively from Hearts’ rapid start. Dane Murray, who had a difficult day, scored an own goal due to confusion when trying to remove a delivery from Shankland. The Hoops worked their way into the game, the captain McGregor, turning home a Tierney pass for level terms.
Stubborn Defence
The shot-stopper Alexander Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Nygren in the first half, kept out an Engels shot which deflected off Magnússon. Craig Halkett thwarted a Yamada attempt in the dying moments. They comfortably saw out the game as the minutes passed. “We stand firm” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the stadium. It's hard to ignore the noise.
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