Hearts Move 8 Points Ahead Ahead at Top Following Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Kick Overcomes The Hoops
A historic moment didn't occur at Tynecastle, as it's far too early for such milestones. What this match did emphasise is that Hearts are at least in with serious opportunity of breaking Scottish football's long-standing dominance by two. Make that an eight-point lead for Hearts over their rivals, whom they comfortably swatted aside. Catch them if you can.
Key Moments in the Latter Period
A brief but pivotal phase proved decisive, after an opening period that was contested closely. What was so notable after they extended their advantage was how comfortable the closing stages of the game was for the hosts. Alexandros Kyziridis scored Hearts’ second, moving infield before firing a powerful effort past the stationary the Celtic keeper. More joy followed in the stands, Murray bringing down Braga for a penalty that Shankland tucked away. Rodgers appeared frustrated; challenges abound for him.
The crowd erupted after Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against Celtic.
The Visitors' Fightback
Celtic bounced back from an early setback. Murray, who endured a torrid afternoon, scored an own goal due to haste when trying to deal with a Shankland cross. The Hoops worked their way into the game, skipper McGregor, finishing a Kieran Tierney cutback for 1-1.
Stubborn Defence
The keeper Schwolow, who had denied from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, kept out an Engels shot which touched Tómas Magnússon. Halkett thwarted a Shin Yamada attempt in stoppage time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the game concluded. “We stand firm” has become the favoured chant at the stadium. It's hard to ignore the noise.
- Detailed coverage will be available.
