Hearts Extend Eight Points Ahead in Front at the Summit After Lawrence Shankland's Spot-Kick Overcomes The Hoops
A historic moment didn't occur at Tynecastle Park, as it's far too early for such achievements. The encounter underlined is that Hearts possess a real serious opportunity of ending Scottish football's four decade-long title duopoly. Make that an eight-point lead for Hearts over Celtic, whom they comfortably swatted aside. Try to chase them down.
Decisive Period in the After the Break
A brief but pivotal phase proved decisive, once the initial exchanges 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, drifting inside before blasting a strike past the motionless Kasper Schmeichel. Delight increased in the stands, Murray fouling Braga for a foul that Shankland slotted home. Rodgers looked dejected; challenges abound for him.
Supporters began celebrating after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against Celtic.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic bounced back from an early setback. Murray, who struggled throughout, scored an own goal due to confusion when trying to remove a ball into the box. Celtic edged their way back into the game, skipper Callum McGregor, scoring a Tierney pull-back for 1-1.
Stubborn Defence
The keeper Alexander Schwolow, who had denied from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, kept out an Arne Engels shot which touched Magnússon. Craig Halkett thwarted a Shin Yamada attempt in the dying moments. The hosts faced little else as the clock ticked down. “We shall not be moved” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the ground. One cannot overlook the excitement.
- Full report to follow.
