Hearts Extend 8 Points in Front at the Summit Following Lawrence Shankland's Spot-Kick Overcomes Celtic
A historic moment didn't occur at Tynecastle Park, as it's far too early for such landmarks. This game highlighted is that Heart of Midlothian have a genuine serious opportunity of breaking Scottish football's 40-year stranglehold. That advantage stands at eight points for the maroon side over the visitors, whom they easily dispatched. The challenge is now for others.
Key Moments in the Latter Period
A crucial three-minute spell proved decisive, following a tight first half that was fiercely fought. What was so notable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how stress-free the rest of the game was for the Tynecastle team. Alexandros Kyziridis netted the second goal, moving infield before blasting a strike past the static the Celtic keeper. More joy followed in the stands, Murray fouling the Hearts player for a foul that the captain converted. Brendan Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; his problems are mounting.
Supporters began celebrating after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against the opposition.
Celtic's Response
Celtic bounced back from an early setback. Murray, who had a difficult day, scored an own goal due to haste when trying to remove a ball into the box. Celtic edged their way back into the game, skipper McGregor, finishing a Kieran Tierney pass for the equaliser.
Solid Backline
The shot-stopper Alexander Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, parried an Engels shot which deflected off Magnússon. Halkett stopped a Shin Yamada attempt in added time. They comfortably saw out the game as the minutes passed. “We stand firm” has become the favoured chant at the ground. It's hard to ignore the buzz.
- Full report coming soon.
