Hearts Extend Eight Points Ahead Clear at the Summit Following Lawrence Shankland's Spot-Kick Overcomes Celtic
A historic moment didn't occur at Tynecastle Park, with it being far too early for such milestones. The encounter underlined is that Heart of Midlothian possess a real strong chance of disrupting Scottish football's 40-year stranglehold. Make that an eight-point lead for Hearts over the visitors, whom they decisively beat. The challenge is now for others.
Decisive Period in the After the Break
A brief but pivotal phase made the difference, once the initial exchanges that was evenly matched. What was so notable after they took a 3-1 lead was how untroubled the closing stages of the game was for the home side. Kyziridis netted the second goal, moving infield before thumping a right-footed shot past the motionless the Celtic keeper. More joy followed in the stands, Dane Murray fouling Braga for a penalty that Shankland slotted home. The Celtic manager appeared frustrated; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
The crowd erupted after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against Celtic.
Celtic's Response
Celtic had actually recovered well from an early setback. Murray, who endured a torrid afternoon, turned the ball into his own net due to confusion when trying to clear a ball into the box. Celtic edged their way back into the game, the captain McGregor, finishing a Tierney pass for 1-1.
Stubborn Defence
The Hearts goalkeeper Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Nygren in the first half, parried an Engels shot which deflected off Magnússon. Halkett stopped a Yamada attempt in stoppage time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the clock ticked down. “We shall not be moved” has become the popular anthem at Tynecastle. It's hard to ignore the excitement.
- Full report coming soon.
