Hearts Push 8 Points Clear at the Pinnacle Following Lawrence Shankland's Spot-Kick Defeats The Hoops
History wasn't made at Tynecastle, since it's far too early for such milestones. This game highlighted is that Hearts are at least in with credible shot of ending Scottish football's long-standing stranglehold. Make that an eight-point lead for the maroon side over the visitors, whom they decisively beat. Catch them if you can.
Turning Point in the Latter Period
Three second-half minutes made the difference, following a tight first half that was fiercely fought. It was remarkable after they extended their advantage was how untroubled the closing stages of the game was for the hosts. Kyziridis doubled the lead, drifting inside before thumping a right-footed shot past the motionless the goalkeeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, the Celtic defender upending Cláudio Braga for a penalty that Shankland converted. Rodgers appeared frustrated; challenges abound for him.
The crowd erupted after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against Celtic.
The Visitors' Fightback
Celtic had actually recovered well from an early setback. The defender, who had a difficult day, turned the ball into his own net due to panic when trying to clear a delivery from Shankland. Celtic edged their way back into the game, leader Callum McGregor, finishing a Tierney cutback for level terms.
Solid Backline
The Hearts goalkeeper Alexander Schwolow, who had denied from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, blocked an Engels shot which deflected off Magnússon. Halkett blocked a Yamada attempt in the dying moments. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the clock ticked down. “We stand firm” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at Tynecastle. It's hard to ignore the excitement.
- Full report will be available.
