The Tynecastle side Push 8 Points Ahead at the Summit Following Lawrence Shankland's Spot-Kick Sees Off Celtic
We did not witness at their home ground, as it's far too early for such landmarks. This game highlighted is that Hearts possess a real serious opportunity of ending Scottish football's four decade-long stranglehold. They now lead by eight points for the maroon side over the visitors, whom they comfortably swatted aside. Catch them if you can.
Turning Point in the Latter Period
Three second-half minutes proved decisive, following a tight first half that was fiercely fought. It was remarkable after they took a 3-1 lead was how stress-free the rest of the game was for the Tynecastle team. Alexandros Kyziridis netted the second goal, drifting inside before firing a powerful effort past the motionless the Celtic keeper. More joy followed in the stands, Murray bringing down the Hearts player for a foul that Shankland tucked away. The Celtic manager looked dejected; challenges abound for him.
The crowd erupted after Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against the opposition.
Hoops' Reaction
The away side responded positively from the hosts' quick opening. The defender, who struggled throughout, conceded an own goal due to haste when trying to remove a Shankland cross. They gradually fought back into the game, leader Callum McGregor, turning home a Kieran Tierney pull-back for level terms.
Solid Backline
The shot-stopper Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, blocked an Engels shot which deflected off Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett thwarted a Yamada attempt in added time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the minutes passed. “We remain resolute” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the ground. One cannot overlook the buzz.
- Full report will be available.
