Hearts Push Eight Points Clear Clear at the Pinnacle Following Shankland's Spot-Kick Sees Off Celtic

A historic moment didn't occur at Tynecastle Park, since it's far too early for such achievements. The encounter underlined is that Heart of Midlothian have a genuine serious opportunity of breaking Scottish football's long-standing stranglehold. Make that an eight-point lead for the maroon side over Celtic, whom they decisively beat. The challenge is now for others.

Turning Point in the Latter Period

Three second-half minutes made the difference, following a tight first half that was fiercely fought. It was remarkable after they took a 3-1 lead was how untroubled the rest of the game was for the home side. Kyziridis doubled the lead, moving infield before thumping a right-footed shot past the static the Celtic keeper. Delight increased in the stands, the Celtic defender bringing down Braga for a foul that Shankland slotted home. Rodgers appeared frustrated; he hardly has his troubles to seek.

The crowd erupted after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against Celtic.

Celtic's Response

Celtic bounced back from the hosts' quick opening. The defender, who endured a torrid afternoon, turned the ball into his own net due to confusion when trying to clear a Shankland cross. The Hoops worked their way into the game, the captain Callum McGregor, turning home a Tierney cutback for the equaliser.

Stubborn Defence

The keeper Alexander Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Nygren in the first half, blocked an Engels shot which touched Magnússon. Craig Halkett thwarted a Yamada attempt in stoppage time. They comfortably saw out the game as the game concluded. “We remain resolute” has become the popular anthem at Tynecastle. It is becoming increasingly difficult the excitement.