Hearts Extend 8 Points Clear at the Summit Following Lawrence Shankland's Spot-Kick Sees Off Celtic
History wasn't made at Tynecastle Park, with it being far too early for such achievements. What this match did emphasise is that Heart of Midlothian have a genuine serious opportunity of disrupting Scottish football's long-standing stranglehold. They now lead by eight points for the maroon side over Celtic, whom they decisively beat. Try to chase them down.
Turning Point in the Second Half
A brief but pivotal phase proved decisive, after an opening period that was evenly matched. What was so notable after they took a 3-1 lead was how untroubled the closing stages of the game was for the hosts. The Greek winger netted the second goal, moving infield before firing a powerful effort past the static the Celtic keeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, the Celtic defender fouling Cláudio Braga for a penalty that the captain slotted home. Rodgers looked dejected; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
The crowd erupted after Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against Celtic.
Celtic's Response
Celtic had actually recovered well from an early setback. Dane Murray, who had a difficult day, scored an own goal due to panic when trying to clear a ball into the box. The Hoops worked their way into the game, skipper Callum McGregor, finishing a Kieran Tierney cutback for the equaliser.
Stubborn Defence
The Hearts goalkeeper Schwolow, who had denied from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, parried an Arne Engels shot which deflected off Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett blocked a Shin Yamada attempt in the dying moments. They comfortably saw out the game as the minutes passed. “We remain resolute” has become the favoured chant at Tynecastle. One cannot overlook the excitement.
- Full report coming soon.
