The Jambos Push 8 Points Ahead at Top After Lawrence Shankland's Spot-Kick Sees Off The Hoops
We did not witness at their home ground, with it being far too early for such landmarks. What this match did emphasise is that Heart of Midlothian have a genuine credible shot of breaking Scottish football's long-standing title duopoly. Make that an eight-point lead for the team over their rivals, whom they decisively beat. Catch them if you can.
Key Moments in the Latter Period
A crucial three-minute spell made the difference, after an opening period that was fiercely fought. What was so notable after they took a 3-1 lead was how untroubled the remainder of the game was for the home side. Kyziridis scored Hearts’ second, cutting in from the left before blasting a strike past the stationary Kasper Schmeichel. Delight increased in the stands, Murray bringing down Braga for a foul that Lawrence Shankland tucked away. Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; 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
The away side responded positively from the hosts' quick opening. Dane Murray, who struggled throughout, scored an own goal due to confusion when trying to clear a ball into the box. The Hoops worked their way into the game, leader Callum McGregor, scoring a Tierney pass for the equaliser.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The shot-stopper Alexander Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Nygren in the first half, kept out an Arne Engels shot which touched Magnússon. Halkett blocked a Yamada attempt in the dying moments. The hosts faced little else as the minutes passed. “We remain resolute” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at Tynecastle. It's hard to ignore the noise.
- Detailed coverage coming soon.
