Hearts Extend 8 Points Clear in Front at the Pinnacle Following Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Kick Sees Off Celtic
We did not witness at Tynecastle Park, as it's far too early for such achievements. The encounter underlined is that Heart of Midlothian are at least in with serious opportunity of breaking Scottish football's 40-year title duopoly. Make that an eight-point lead for the team over Celtic, whom they comfortably swatted aside. The challenge is now for others.
Turning Point in the Latter Period
A crucial three-minute spell made the difference, following a tight first half that was evenly matched. It was remarkable after they took a 3-1 lead was how stress-free the closing stages of the game was for the hosts. Alexandros Kyziridis netted the second goal, cutting in from the left before thumping a right-footed shot past the stationary the Celtic keeper. More joy followed in the stands, Dane Murray upending Braga for a spot-kick that Shankland slotted home. Brendan Rodgers looked dejected; challenges abound for him.
The crowd erupted after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against the opposition.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic bounced back from Hearts’ rapid start. Dane Murray, who struggled throughout, scored an own goal due to panic when trying to remove a Shankland cross. The Hoops worked their way into the game, the captain McGregor, turning home a Tierney cutback for the equaliser.
Stubborn Defence
The Hearts goalkeeper Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Nygren in the first half, parried an Arne Engels shot which deflected off Magnússon. Craig Halkett thwarted a Yamada attempt in the dying moments. They comfortably saw out the game as the game concluded. “We remain resolute” has become the favoured chant at Tynecastle. It's hard to ignore the buzz.
- Complete analysis to follow.
