Hearts Extend Eight Points Clear in Front at Top Following Lawrence Shankland's Spot-Kick Defeats The Hoops
We did not witness at Tynecastle, as it's far too early for such achievements. What this match did emphasise is that Heart of Midlothian are at least in with serious opportunity of breaking Scottish football's long-standing stranglehold. That advantage stands at eight points for the maroon side over their rivals, whom they easily dispatched. Try to chase them down.
Key Moments in the After the Break
Three second-half minutes were key, once the initial exchanges that was fiercely fought. What was so notable after they took a 3-1 lead was how stress-free the closing stages of the game was for the hosts. Kyziridis netted the second goal, drifting inside before firing a powerful effort past the stationary the Celtic keeper. More joy followed in the stands, the Celtic defender bringing down the Hearts player for a foul that Shankland converted. Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; challenges abound for him.
Fans start to rejoice after Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against the opposition.
Celtic's Response
Celtic had actually recovered well from an early setback. Dane Murray, who endured a torrid afternoon, conceded an own goal due to panic when trying to remove a ball into the box. The Hoops worked their way into the game, leader Callum McGregor, finishing a Kieran Tierney pass for level terms.
Solid Backline
The shot-stopper Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, parried an Engels shot which touched Tómas Magnússon. Halkett stopped a Shin Yamada attempt in stoppage time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the game concluded. “We stand firm” has become the popular anthem at the stadium. It's hard to ignore the excitement.
- Detailed coverage coming soon.
