Hearts Push 8 Points in Front at Top Following Shankland's Spot-Kick Sees Off Celtic
History wasn't made at their home ground, with it being far too early for such landmarks. This game highlighted is that Hearts possess a real credible shot of disrupting Scottish football's 40-year stranglehold. They now lead by eight points for Hearts over Celtic, whom they comfortably swatted aside. The challenge is now for others.
Decisive Period in the After the Break
A crucial three-minute spell were key, after an opening period that was evenly matched. It was remarkable after they extended their advantage was how comfortable the closing stages of the game was for the Tynecastle team. Alexandros Kyziridis scored Hearts’ second, cutting in from the left before firing a powerful effort past the motionless the Celtic keeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Murray bringing down Cláudio Braga for a foul that Lawrence Shankland converted. Rodgers looked dejected; his problems are mounting.
Supporters began celebrating after Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against Celtic.
Hoops' Reaction
The away side responded positively from an early setback. Murray, who struggled throughout, scored an own goal due to haste when trying to deal with a delivery from Shankland. They gradually fought back into the game, the captain McGregor, scoring a Tierney pass for the equaliser.
Solid Backline
The keeper Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, blocked an Arne Engels shot which deflected off Magnússon. Craig Halkett stopped a Yamada attempt in stoppage time. The hosts faced little else as the clock ticked down. “We shall not be moved” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the ground. It is becoming increasingly difficult the buzz.
- Detailed coverage coming soon.
