Hearts Extend Eight Points Clear in Front at the Pinnacle Following Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Kick Overcomes Celtic
We did not witness at Tynecastle, as it's far too early for such achievements. The encounter underlined is that Hearts have a genuine serious opportunity of ending Scottish football's 40-year stranglehold. That advantage stands at eight points for Hearts over their rivals, whom they decisively beat. Try to chase them down.
Decisive Period in the Latter Period
A brief but pivotal phase proved decisive, once the initial exchanges that was contested closely. The striking aspect after they extended their advantage was how comfortable the remainder of the game was for the home side. Kyziridis doubled the lead, drifting inside before firing a powerful effort past the static the goalkeeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Murray upending the Hearts player for a penalty that Shankland slotted home. Rodgers appeared frustrated; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
Fans start to rejoice after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against the opposition.
Celtic's Response
Celtic had actually recovered well from Hearts’ rapid start. Murray, who had a difficult day, scored an own goal due to panic when trying to remove a Shankland cross. They gradually fought back into the game, leader Callum McGregor, turning home a Tierney pass for the equaliser.
Stubborn Defence
The keeper Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, parried an Engels shot which touched Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett stopped a Shin Yamada attempt in stoppage time. The hosts faced little else as the game concluded. “We stand firm” has become the favoured chant at the stadium. It's hard to ignore the buzz.
- Detailed coverage coming soon.
