Hearts Extend Eight Points Clear Ahead at the Pinnacle After Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Overcomes The Hoops
We did not witness at Tynecastle Park, with it being far too early for such milestones. What this match did emphasise is that Heart of Midlothian have a genuine serious opportunity of breaking Scottish football's four decade-long dominance by two. Make that an eight-point lead for Hearts over the visitors, whom they comfortably swatted aside. Try to chase them down.
Decisive Period in the Second Half
A brief but pivotal phase were key, following a tight first half that was fiercely fought. It was remarkable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how untroubled the remainder of the game was for the hosts. Kyziridis netted the second goal, moving infield before blasting a strike past the stationary Kasper Schmeichel. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, the Celtic defender upending Cláudio Braga for a spot-kick that Shankland slotted home. Brendan Rodgers looked dejected; his problems are mounting.
The crowd erupted after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against Celtic.
Hoops' Reaction
The away side responded positively from the hosts' quick opening. Murray, who had a difficult day, scored an own goal due to confusion when trying to remove a ball into the box. They gradually fought back into the game, the captain Callum McGregor, finishing a Tierney pull-back for the equaliser.
Solid Backline
The shot-stopper Alexander Schwolow, who had denied from Nygren in the first half, kept out an Engels shot which flicked off Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett blocked a Shin Yamada attempt in added time. The hosts faced little else as the clock ticked down. “We stand firm” has become the favoured chant at the stadium. It's hard to ignore the excitement.
- Full report will be available.
