Hearts Push 8 Points Clear Clear at the Pinnacle Following Shankland's Penalty Kick Overcomes Celtic

History wasn't made at Tynecastle Park, with it being far too early for such achievements. This game highlighted is that the Edinburgh club are at least in with strong chance of breaking Scottish football's 40-year dominance by two. Make that an eight-point lead for the maroon side over the visitors, whom they easily dispatched. Catch them if you can.

Key Moments in the Second Half

A crucial three-minute spell were key, following a tight first half that was contested closely. It was remarkable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how untroubled the remainder of the game was for the home side. The Greek winger scored Hearts’ second, drifting inside before firing a powerful effort past the motionless the goalkeeper. More joy followed in the stands, Dane Murray fouling the Hearts player for a spot-kick that the captain slotted home. Rodgers looked dejected; his problems are mounting.

Supporters began celebrating after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against the opposition.

Hoops' Reaction

Celtic had actually recovered well from an early setback. The defender, who endured a torrid afternoon, scored an own goal due to confusion when trying to deal with a delivery from Shankland. Celtic edged their way back into the game, the captain Callum McGregor, scoring a Tierney pull-back for level terms.

Stubborn Defence

The shot-stopper Schwolow, who had denied from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, blocked an Engels shot which touched Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett blocked a Yamada attempt in stoppage time. They comfortably saw out the game as the clock ticked down. “We stand firm” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the ground. One cannot overlook the noise.

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