Hearts Extend Eight Points Ahead in Front at the Summit Following Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Sees Off Celtic
A historic moment didn't occur at Tynecastle Park, with it being far too early for such milestones. What this match did emphasise is that Heart of Midlothian have a genuine credible shot of ending Scottish football's 40-year title duopoly. They now lead by eight points for the maroon side over Celtic, whom they easily dispatched. Catch them if you can.
Turning Point in the After the Break
Three second-half minutes were key, once the initial exchanges that was fiercely fought. The striking aspect after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how comfortable the closing stages of the game was for the home side. Kyziridis scored Hearts’ second, cutting in from the left before firing a powerful effort past the motionless the goalkeeper. Delight increased in the stands, Murray upending Braga for a penalty that the captain converted. Brendan Rodgers looked dejected; his problems are mounting.
The crowd erupted after Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against Celtic.
Celtic's Response
The away side responded positively from Hearts’ rapid start. Dane Murray, who had a difficult day, conceded an own goal due to haste when trying to remove a ball into the box. Celtic edged their way back into the game, the captain McGregor, scoring a Tierney cutback for 1-1.
Solid Backline
The keeper Alexander Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, blocked an Arne Engels shot which deflected off Magnússon. Halkett blocked a Shin Yamada attempt in added time. They comfortably saw out the game as the game concluded. “We stand firm” has become the favoured chant at the stadium. It is becoming increasingly difficult the noise.
- Complete analysis coming soon.
