Hearts Extend Eight Points Clear at the Pinnacle After Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Kick Sees Off The Hoops
A historic moment didn't occur at Tynecastle Park, as it's far too early for such milestones. What this match did emphasise is that Hearts possess a real credible shot of ending Scottish football's long-standing stranglehold. They now lead by eight points for the team over the visitors, whom they easily dispatched. Try to chase them down.
Decisive Period in the After the Break
Three second-half minutes proved decisive, following a tight first half that was evenly matched. It was remarkable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how comfortable the rest of the game was for the home side. Kyziridis scored Hearts’ second, moving infield before blasting a strike past the stationary Kasper Schmeichel. Delight increased in the stands, the Celtic defender bringing down Braga for a penalty that Lawrence Shankland slotted home. Brendan Rodgers looked dejected; his problems are mounting.
Fans start to rejoice after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against Celtic.
Celtic's Response
Celtic had actually recovered well from an early setback. Murray, who struggled throughout, turned the ball into his own net due to panic when trying to deal with a delivery from Shankland. Celtic edged their way back into the game, skipper McGregor, turning home a Tierney cutback for the equaliser.
Solid Backline
The Hearts goalkeeper Schwolow, who had denied from Nygren in the first half, parried an Engels shot which flicked off Magnússon. Halkett stopped a Yamada attempt in stoppage time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the game concluded. “We remain resolute” has become the popular anthem at the stadium. It is becoming increasingly difficult the buzz.
- Detailed coverage coming soon.