The Tynecastle side Extend 8 Points Ahead at Top After Lawrence Shankland's Spot-Kick Sees Off The Hoops
History wasn't made at Tynecastle, since it's far too early for such achievements. What this match did emphasise is that Heart of Midlothian have a genuine credible shot of breaking Scottish football's long-standing title duopoly. Make that an eight-point lead for Hearts over their rivals, whom they easily dispatched. Try to chase them down.
Turning Point in the Second Half
Three second-half minutes proved decisive, following a tight first half that was evenly matched. What was so notable after they extended their advantage was how stress-free the closing stages of the game was for the home side. Alexandros Kyziridis doubled the lead, moving infield before firing a powerful effort past the motionless Kasper Schmeichel. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, the Celtic defender fouling the Hearts player for a penalty that Lawrence Shankland slotted home. Rodgers looked dejected; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
Fans start to rejoice after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against the opposition.
The Visitors' Fightback
Celtic had actually recovered well from the hosts' quick opening. Murray, who struggled throughout, conceded an own goal due to panic when trying to deal with a Shankland cross. The Hoops worked their way into the game, skipper Callum McGregor, turning home a Kieran Tierney cutback for level terms.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The keeper Alexander Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Nygren in the first half, blocked an Engels shot which flicked off Magnússon. Halkett blocked a Shin Yamada attempt in stoppage time. They comfortably saw out the game as the clock ticked down. “We shall not be moved” has become the favoured chant at the stadium. It is becoming increasingly difficult the buzz.
- Complete analysis will be available.
