Hearts Extend Eight Points Ahead in Front at the Summit Following Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Kick Sees Off The Hoops
A historic moment didn't occur at Tynecastle, with it being far too early for such landmarks. 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. That advantage stands at eight points for the maroon side over Celtic, whom they easily dispatched. The challenge is now for others.
Decisive Period in the After the Break
Three second-half minutes made the difference, once the initial exchanges that was contested closely. It was remarkable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how untroubled the closing stages of the game was for the home side. Alexandros Kyziridis doubled the lead, moving infield before thumping a right-footed shot past the motionless Kasper Schmeichel. Delight increased in the stands, the Celtic defender fouling Cláudio Braga for a spot-kick that Shankland slotted home. Brendan Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; challenges abound for him.
The crowd erupted after Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against Celtic.
The Visitors' Fightback
Celtic had actually recovered well from the hosts' quick opening. Murray, who had a difficult day, scored an own goal due to haste when trying to clear a Shankland cross. They gradually fought back into the game, leader Callum McGregor, finishing a Kieran Tierney pass for 1-1.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The keeper Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, blocked an Engels shot which touched Magnússon. Craig Halkett blocked a Shin Yamada attempt in added time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the clock ticked down. “We shall not be moved” has become the favoured chant at the stadium. One cannot overlook the noise.
- Complete analysis coming soon.
