The Tynecastle side Extend Eight Points Clear in Front at the Pinnacle Following Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Sees Off The Hoops
History wasn't made at Tynecastle Park, as it's far too early for such landmarks. What this match did emphasise is that Hearts possess a real strong chance of disrupting Scottish football's four decade-long dominance by two. They now lead by eight points for Hearts over Celtic, 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. It was remarkable after they took a 3-1 lead was how stress-free the closing stages of the game was for the Tynecastle team. Kyziridis doubled the lead, cutting in from the left before thumping a right-footed shot past the stationary the Celtic keeper. Delight increased in the stands, Murray upending Braga for a spot-kick that Shankland converted. Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; challenges abound for him.
Supporters began celebrating after Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against Celtic.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic had actually recovered well from an early setback. The defender, who endured a torrid afternoon, turned the ball into his own net due to confusion when trying to deal with a ball into the box. Celtic edged their way back into the game, leader Callum McGregor, scoring a Kieran Tierney cutback for the equaliser.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The Hearts goalkeeper Schwolow, who had denied from Nygren in the first half, kept out an Arne Engels shot which deflected off Tómas 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 favoured chant at Tynecastle. It's hard to ignore the excitement.
- Full report coming soon.
