Hearts Move 8 Points Clear in Front at the Summit Following Lawrence Shankland's Spot-Kick Defeats Celtic
We did not witness at Tynecastle, since it's far too early for such achievements. This game highlighted is that Hearts possess a real credible shot of breaking Scottish football's long-standing title duopoly. That advantage stands at eight points for Hearts over their rivals, whom they easily dispatched. The challenge is now for others.
Turning Point in the After the Break
A brief but pivotal phase proved decisive, after an opening period that was evenly matched. It was remarkable after they extended their advantage was how comfortable the rest of the game was for the hosts. The Greek winger doubled the lead, cutting in from the left before thumping a right-footed shot past the stationary Kasper Schmeichel. Delight increased in the stands, Dane Murray upending Cláudio Braga for a penalty that the captain converted. Rodgers looked dejected; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
Supporters began celebrating after Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against the opposition.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic bounced back from the hosts' quick opening. Dane Murray, who had a difficult day, scored an own goal due to panic when trying to remove a Shankland cross. The Hoops worked their way into the game, skipper McGregor, scoring a Tierney cutback for the equaliser.
Solid Backline
The Hearts goalkeeper Alexander Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Nygren in the first half, blocked an Engels shot which flicked off Tómas Magnússon. Halkett thwarted a Yamada attempt in the dying moments. They comfortably saw out the game as the game concluded. “We shall not be moved” has become the favoured chant at Tynecastle. One cannot overlook the excitement.
- Detailed coverage to follow.
