Hearts Push 8 Points Clear Ahead at Top Following Shankland's Spot-Kick Defeats The Hoops
A historic moment didn't occur at Tynecastle, as it's far too early for such landmarks. This game highlighted is that the Edinburgh club have a genuine strong chance of ending Scottish football's long-standing dominance by two. Make that an eight-point lead for the team over the visitors, whom they decisively beat. Try to chase them down.
Turning Point in the Second Half
Three second-half minutes made the difference, once the initial exchanges that was fiercely fought. The striking aspect after they took a 3-1 lead was how comfortable the closing stages of the game was for the Tynecastle team. Alexandros Kyziridis doubled the lead, cutting in from the left before firing a powerful effort past the motionless the Celtic keeper. More joy followed in the stands, Dane Murray bringing down Cláudio Braga for a foul that Lawrence Shankland converted. Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
Supporters began celebrating after Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against the opposition.
Celtic's Response
The away side responded positively from Hearts’ rapid start. Murray, who had a difficult day, conceded an own goal due to panic when trying to deal with a delivery from Shankland. They gradually fought back into the game, the captain Callum McGregor, finishing a Kieran Tierney pass for 1-1.
Stubborn Defence
The Hearts goalkeeper Alexander Schwolow, who had denied from Nygren in the first half, blocked an Arne Engels shot which flicked off Magnússon. Craig Halkett thwarted a Shin Yamada attempt in added time. They comfortably saw out the game as the clock ticked down. “We shall not be moved” has become the popular anthem at the ground. One cannot overlook the excitement.
- Full report coming soon.
