Hearts Extend 8 Points Ahead at Top After Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Defeats Celtic
History wasn't made at their home ground, as it's far too early for such landmarks. This game highlighted is that Hearts possess a real serious opportunity of disrupting Scottish football's long-standing title duopoly. Make that an eight-point lead for Hearts over Celtic, whom they comfortably swatted aside. Catch them if you can.
Turning Point in the After the Break
A brief but pivotal phase were key, after an opening period that was contested closely. The striking aspect after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how untroubled the remainder of the game was for the home side. Kyziridis netted the second goal, moving infield before firing a powerful effort past the motionless Kasper Schmeichel. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Dane Murray upending the Hearts player for a spot-kick that the captain converted. The Celtic manager looked dejected; his problems are mounting.
Supporters began celebrating after Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against Celtic.
Hoops' Reaction
The away side responded positively from Hearts’ rapid start. Dane Murray, who had a difficult day, conceded an own goal due to haste when trying to clear a Shankland cross. Celtic edged their way back into the game, skipper Callum McGregor, turning home a Tierney pull-back for 1-1.
Solid Backline
The shot-stopper Alexander Schwolow, who had denied from Nygren in the first half, parried an Arne Engels shot which touched Tómas Magnússon. Halkett stopped a Yamada attempt in the dying moments. They comfortably saw out the game as the clock ticked down. “We shall not be moved” has become the favoured chant at Tynecastle. One cannot overlook the excitement.
- Detailed coverage coming soon.