The Jambos Push 8 Points Ahead Ahead at the Summit After Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Kick Overcomes Celtic
A historic moment didn't occur at their home ground, since it's far too early for such landmarks. What this match did emphasise is that Hearts have a genuine credible shot of disrupting Scottish football's long-standing dominance by two. That advantage stands at eight points for the maroon side over Celtic, whom they comfortably swatted aside. Catch them if you can.
Decisive Period in the Second Half
Three second-half minutes made the difference, following a tight first half that was contested closely. The striking aspect after they took a 3-1 lead was how stress-free the rest of the game was for the home side. Alexandros Kyziridis netted the second goal, cutting in from the left before thumping a right-footed shot past the stationary Kasper Schmeichel. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Dane Murray upending Cláudio Braga for a spot-kick that Shankland slotted home. Rodgers looked dejected; his problems are mounting.
Fans start to rejoice after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against the opposition.
The Visitors' Fightback
Celtic bounced back from an early setback. Murray, who struggled throughout, conceded an own goal due to haste when trying to remove a ball into the box. Celtic edged their way back into the game, the captain Callum McGregor, scoring a Kieran Tierney pass for level terms.
Solid Backline
The shot-stopper Alexander Schwolow, who had denied from Nygren in the first half, kept out an Arne Engels shot which flicked off Magnússon. Craig Halkett blocked a Shin Yamada attempt in added time. The hosts faced little else as the clock ticked down. “We remain resolute” has become the popular anthem at Tynecastle. It is becoming increasingly difficult the buzz.
- Full report will be available.
