Hearts Extend Eight Points Clear in Front at the Pinnacle After Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Kick Sees Off Celtic
History wasn't made at their home ground, with it being far too early for such landmarks. What this match did emphasise is that Heart of Midlothian are at least in with strong chance of breaking Scottish football's four decade-long title duopoly. That advantage stands at eight points for Hearts over the visitors, whom they decisively beat. The challenge is now for others.
Key Moments in the Latter Period
A brief but pivotal phase made the difference, following a tight first half that was fiercely fought. It was remarkable after they extended their advantage was how untroubled the remainder of the game was for the Tynecastle team. Kyziridis scored Hearts’ second, drifting inside before firing a powerful effort past the motionless the goalkeeper. More joy followed in the stands, Dane Murray bringing down the Hearts player for a spot-kick that the captain slotted home. Brendan Rodgers appeared frustrated; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
The crowd erupted after Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against Celtic.
The Visitors' Fightback
Celtic had actually recovered well from the hosts' quick opening. Dane Murray, who endured a torrid afternoon, turned the ball into his own net due to haste when trying to remove a ball into the box. Celtic edged their way back into the game, skipper McGregor, turning home a Tierney pass for level terms.
Solid Backline
The shot-stopper Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Nygren in the first half, parried an Engels shot which deflected off Tómas Magnússon. Halkett blocked a Shin Yamada attempt in the dying moments. The hosts faced little else as the game concluded. “We remain resolute” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at Tynecastle. It's hard to ignore the buzz.
- Detailed coverage coming soon.
