The Jambos Push 8 Points Clear Ahead at the Pinnacle After Lawrence Shankland's Spot-Kick Sees Off Celtic
A historic moment didn't occur at Tynecastle Park, since it's far too early for such achievements. This game highlighted is that Heart of Midlothian are at least in with serious opportunity of disrupting Scottish football's long-standing title duopoly. That advantage stands at eight points for the team over their rivals, whom they comfortably swatted aside. Try to chase them down.
Key Moments in the After the Break
A brief but pivotal phase proved decisive, once the initial exchanges that was evenly matched. The striking aspect after they took a 3-1 lead was how comfortable the remainder of the game was for the hosts. Kyziridis netted the second goal, drifting inside before blasting a strike past the static the Celtic keeper. Delight increased in the stands, Murray upending Cláudio Braga for a foul that Lawrence Shankland converted. Brendan Rodgers appeared frustrated; challenges abound for him.
Supporters began celebrating after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against the opposition.
Celtic's Response
Celtic had actually recovered well from Hearts’ rapid start. The defender, who struggled throughout, turned the ball into his own net due to confusion when trying to deal with a Shankland cross. Celtic edged their way back into the game, leader McGregor, finishing a Tierney cutback for 1-1.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The shot-stopper Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Nygren in the first half, blocked an Engels shot which flicked off Magnússon. Craig Halkett thwarted a Shin Yamada attempt in stoppage time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the game concluded. “We shall not be moved” has become the favoured chant at Tynecastle. It is becoming increasingly difficult the excitement.
- Full report to follow.
