Hearts Move Eight Points Ahead Clear at the Pinnacle After Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Kick Sees Off Celtic
History wasn't made at Tynecastle Park, since 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 title duopoly. They now lead by eight points for the team over Celtic, whom they decisively beat. Try to chase them down.
Key Moments in the Second Half
A crucial three-minute spell made the difference, after an opening period that was evenly matched. It was remarkable after they took a 3-1 lead was how stress-free the closing stages of the game was for the Tynecastle team. Alexandros Kyziridis netted the second goal, drifting inside before firing a powerful effort past the static Kasper Schmeichel. Delight increased in the stands, Dane Murray bringing down the Hearts player for a spot-kick that Shankland slotted home. Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; challenges abound for him.
The crowd erupted after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against the opposition.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic had actually recovered well from an early setback. Murray, who struggled throughout, conceded an own goal due to haste when trying to remove a ball into the box. The Hoops worked their way into the game, the captain Callum McGregor, turning home a Tierney pass for the equaliser.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The shot-stopper Schwolow, who had denied from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, kept out an Arne Engels shot which deflected off Magnússon. Halkett stopped a Shin Yamada attempt in the dying moments. They comfortably saw out the game as the game concluded. “We stand firm” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the ground. One cannot overlook the noise.
- Complete analysis to follow.
