The Tynecastle side Move 8 Points Clear Ahead at Top After Shankland's Spot-Kick Sees Off Celtic
A historic moment didn't occur at Tynecastle, since it's far too early for such landmarks. What this match did emphasise is that Heart of Midlothian possess a real credible shot of ending Scottish football's four decade-long stranglehold. That advantage stands at eight points for the team over the visitors, whom they easily dispatched. The challenge is now for others.
Key Moments in the Latter Period
A brief but pivotal phase were key, after an opening period that was fiercely fought. It was remarkable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how untroubled the rest of the game was for the hosts. Kyziridis scored Hearts’ second, moving infield before firing a powerful effort past the static Kasper Schmeichel. More joy followed in the stands, Murray upending Braga for a penalty that Lawrence Shankland converted. Brendan Rodgers looked dejected; challenges abound for him.
The crowd erupted after Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against Celtic.
Hoops' Reaction
The away side responded positively from an early setback. Dane Murray, who struggled throughout, conceded an own goal due to panic when trying to remove a ball into the box. They gradually fought back into the game, leader Callum McGregor, finishing a Kieran Tierney pass for 1-1.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The keeper Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, parried an Arne Engels shot which deflected off Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett blocked a Shin Yamada attempt in stoppage time. They comfortably saw out the game as the clock ticked down. “We stand firm” has become the popular anthem at the stadium. It is becoming increasingly difficult the noise.
- Complete analysis coming soon.
