Hearts Move Eight Points Ahead at the Summit Following Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Sees Off The Hoops
A historic moment didn't occur at their home ground, since it's far too early for such achievements. What this match did emphasise is that the Edinburgh club are at least in with credible shot of ending Scottish football's 40-year title duopoly. That advantage stands at eight points for Hearts over the visitors, whom they easily dispatched. Try to chase them down.
Turning Point in the Second Half
A brief but pivotal phase were key, after an opening period that was contested closely. What was so notable after they took a 3-1 lead was how stress-free the remainder of the game was for the Tynecastle team. The Greek winger netted the second goal, moving infield before blasting a strike past the motionless the goalkeeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Murray fouling the Hearts player for a penalty that Lawrence Shankland tucked away. The Celtic manager appeared frustrated; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
Supporters began celebrating after Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against the opposition.
Celtic's Response
Celtic had actually recovered well from Hearts’ rapid start. Dane Murray, who endured a torrid afternoon, conceded an own goal due to confusion when trying to remove a delivery from Shankland. They gradually fought back into the game, skipper McGregor, scoring a Kieran Tierney pass for the equaliser.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The Hearts goalkeeper Alexander Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, parried an Arne Engels shot which flicked off Magnússon. Craig Halkett thwarted a Shin Yamada attempt in stoppage time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the clock ticked down. “We remain resolute” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the stadium. One cannot overlook the noise.
- Full report to follow.
