The Jambos Extend 8 Points Ahead at the Pinnacle Following Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Kick Overcomes Celtic
A historic moment didn't occur at Tynecastle, since it's far too early for such achievements. This game highlighted is that Heart of Midlothian possess a real credible shot of breaking Scottish football's four decade-long stranglehold. That advantage stands at eight points for the team over the visitors, whom they easily dispatched. Catch them if you can.
Turning Point in the After the Break
A crucial three-minute spell made the difference, once the initial exchanges that was fiercely fought. What was so notable after they took a 3-1 lead was how comfortable the remainder of the game was for the hosts. Alexandros Kyziridis doubled the lead, drifting inside before thumping a right-footed shot past the motionless the Celtic keeper. Delight increased in the stands, Murray fouling Braga for a foul that Lawrence Shankland converted. Rodgers appeared frustrated; challenges abound for him.
The crowd erupted after Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against Celtic.
Celtic's Response
The away side responded positively from Hearts’ rapid start. Dane Murray, who endured a torrid afternoon, conceded 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 cutback for the equaliser.
Stubborn Defence
The Hearts goalkeeper 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 added time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the clock ticked down. “We shall not be moved” has become the favoured chant at Tynecastle. It is becoming increasingly difficult the excitement.
- Complete analysis to follow.
