Hearts Extend 8 Points Ahead in Front at the Summit Following Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Kick Overcomes Celtic
History wasn't made at Tynecastle Park, as it's far too early for such achievements. This game highlighted is that Hearts are at least in with serious opportunity of ending Scottish football's long-standing title duopoly. They now lead by eight points for the maroon side over Celtic, whom they decisively beat. The challenge is now for others.
Turning Point in the After the Break
A crucial three-minute spell proved decisive, following a tight first half that was contested closely. The striking aspect after they took a 3-1 lead was how stress-free the closing stages of the game was for the home side. Kyziridis scored Hearts’ second, cutting in from the left before firing a powerful effort past the motionless the goalkeeper. Delight increased in the stands, the Celtic defender fouling the Hearts player for a spot-kick that Shankland converted. Rodgers appeared frustrated; his problems are mounting.
Supporters began celebrating after Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against Celtic.
Hoops' Reaction
The away side responded positively from the hosts' quick opening. Dane Murray, who struggled throughout, scored an own goal due to haste when trying to deal with a Shankland cross. Celtic edged their way back into the game, leader Callum McGregor, finishing a Kieran Tierney pull-back for 1-1.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The Hearts goalkeeper Schwolow, who had denied from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, parried an Engels shot which deflected off Tómas Magnússon. Halkett blocked a Shin Yamada attempt in added time. The hosts faced little else as the minutes passed. “We stand firm” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the stadium. It's hard to ignore the noise.
- Complete analysis coming soon.
