The Jambos Push Eight Points Clear Clear at the Pinnacle After Lawrence Shankland's Spot-Kick Defeats Celtic
History wasn't made at Tynecastle, with it being far too early for such milestones. What this match did emphasise is that Hearts have a genuine serious opportunity of ending Scottish football's long-standing title duopoly. That advantage stands at eight points for the team over Celtic, whom they comfortably swatted aside. Catch them if you can.
Turning Point in the Second Half
Three second-half minutes proved decisive, after an opening period that was evenly matched. The striking aspect after they extended their advantage was how stress-free the closing stages of the game was for the home side. Alexandros Kyziridis scored Hearts’ second, drifting inside before thumping a right-footed shot past the stationary Kasper Schmeichel. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Murray upending the Hearts player for a spot-kick that Shankland slotted home. Rodgers appeared frustrated; challenges abound for him.
Supporters began celebrating after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against Celtic.
Hoops' Reaction
The away side responded positively from an early setback. The defender, who endured a torrid afternoon, turned the ball into his own net due to confusion when trying to remove a ball into the box. The Hoops worked their way into the game, leader Callum McGregor, turning home a Kieran Tierney pull-back for the equaliser.
Solid Backline
The shot-stopper Alexander Schwolow, who had denied from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, blocked an Engels shot which flicked off Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett thwarted a Shin Yamada attempt in stoppage time. They comfortably saw out the game as the clock ticked down. “We stand firm” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at Tynecastle. One cannot overlook the buzz.
- Complete analysis to follow.
