Hearts Push 8 Points Clear Ahead at Top After Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Kick Overcomes Celtic
A historic moment didn't occur at their home ground, with it being far too early for such milestones. This game highlighted is that Hearts have a genuine strong chance of disrupting Scottish football's long-standing stranglehold. 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
A crucial three-minute spell made the difference, following a tight first half that was evenly matched. The striking aspect after they took a 3-1 lead was how comfortable the closing stages of the game was for the Tynecastle team. Alexandros Kyziridis doubled the lead, moving infield before firing a powerful effort past the stationary Kasper Schmeichel. More joy followed in the stands, Murray bringing down the Hearts player for a penalty that the captain slotted home. The Celtic manager appeared frustrated; his problems are mounting.
The crowd erupted after Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against Celtic.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic had actually recovered well from Hearts’ rapid start. The defender, who had a difficult day, turned the ball into his own net due to haste when trying to deal with a ball into the box. They gradually fought back into the game, skipper McGregor, scoring a Tierney pass for 1-1.
Stubborn Defence
The keeper Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Nygren in the first half, kept out an Arne Engels shot which flicked off Magnússon. Halkett blocked a Shin Yamada attempt in stoppage time. They comfortably saw out the game as the minutes passed. “We stand firm” has become the favoured chant at Tynecastle. It is becoming increasingly difficult the noise.
- Complete analysis to follow.
