The Tynecastle side Move 8 Points Clear in Front at Top Following Shankland's Penalty Sees Off Celtic
We did not witness at Tynecastle Park, since 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 four decade-long dominance by two. Make that an eight-point lead for the maroon side over their rivals, whom they comfortably swatted aside. Catch them if you can.
Decisive Period in the Latter Period
A brief but pivotal phase were key, following a tight first half that was contested closely. The striking aspect after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how comfortable the remainder of the game was for the home side. Kyziridis scored Hearts’ second, cutting in from the left before blasting a strike past the stationary Kasper Schmeichel. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Murray bringing down the Hearts player for a spot-kick that Lawrence Shankland converted. Brendan Rodgers looked dejected; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
The crowd erupted after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against the opposition.
Hoops' Reaction
The away side responded positively from Hearts’ rapid start. Dane Murray, who struggled throughout, conceded an own goal due to haste when trying to remove a Shankland cross. Celtic edged their way back into the game, the captain McGregor, scoring a Tierney cutback for level terms.
Stubborn Defence
The keeper Alexander Schwolow, who had denied from Nygren in the first half, parried an Arne Engels shot which touched Tómas Magnússon. Halkett stopped a Shin Yamada attempt in added 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 buzz.
- Full report coming soon.
