Hearts Push 8 Points Ahead Clear at the Pinnacle After Shankland's Penalty Kick Overcomes Celtic
A historic moment didn't occur at Tynecastle Park, as it's far too early for such landmarks. The encounter underlined is that Heart of Midlothian are at least in with serious opportunity of breaking Scottish football's four decade-long title duopoly. Make that an eight-point lead for the maroon side over Celtic, whom they easily dispatched. The challenge is now for others.
Decisive Period in the Latter Period
Three second-half minutes made the difference, once the initial exchanges that was contested closely. What was so notable after they extended their advantage was how comfortable the rest of the game was for the hosts. The Greek winger netted the second goal, cutting in from the left before firing a powerful effort past the motionless Kasper Schmeichel. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Murray fouling the Hearts player for a foul that Lawrence Shankland converted. Rodgers looked dejected; challenges abound for him.
The crowd erupted after Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against the opposition.
The Visitors' Fightback
Celtic bounced back from an early setback. The defender, who had a difficult day, scored an own goal due to panic when trying to clear a ball into the box. They gradually fought back into the game, the captain McGregor, finishing a Kieran Tierney pass for the equaliser.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The shot-stopper Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Nygren in the first half, blocked an Engels shot which deflected off Magnússon. Craig Halkett blocked a Yamada attempt in the dying moments. They comfortably saw out the game as the clock ticked down. “We stand firm” has become the favoured chant at the stadium. One cannot overlook the buzz.
- Complete analysis coming soon.
