The Jambos Extend Eight Points Clear Clear at Top After Lawrence Shankland's Spot-Kick Defeats Celtic
History wasn't made at their home ground, since it's far too early for such landmarks. The encounter underlined is that Heart of Midlothian are at least in with credible shot of breaking Scottish football's 40-year stranglehold. That advantage stands at eight points for Hearts over the visitors, whom they comfortably swatted aside. Catch them if you can.
Turning Point in the Latter Period
A crucial three-minute spell made the difference, after an opening period that was evenly matched. The striking aspect after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how comfortable the remainder of the game was for the home side. Kyziridis scored Hearts’ second, drifting inside before blasting a strike past the motionless the Celtic keeper. More joy followed in the stands, Dane Murray bringing down Cláudio Braga for a penalty that Lawrence Shankland converted. Brendan Rodgers appeared frustrated; his problems are mounting.
Fans start to rejoice after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against Celtic.
Hoops' Reaction
The away side responded positively from Hearts’ rapid start. Murray, who had a difficult day, scored an own goal due to panic when trying to deal with a ball into the box. They gradually fought back into the game, the captain McGregor, scoring a Kieran Tierney pass for level terms.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The Hearts goalkeeper Schwolow, who had denied from Nygren in the first half, parried an Engels shot which flicked off Magnússon. Craig Halkett stopped a Shin Yamada attempt in added time. They comfortably saw out the game as the clock ticked down. “We remain resolute” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the stadium. It is becoming increasingly difficult the noise.
- Complete analysis coming soon.
