Hearts Push 8 Points in Front at the Summit Following Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Kick Overcomes The Hoops
We did not witness at their home ground, as it's far too early for such milestones. What this match did emphasise is that Hearts possess a real serious opportunity of breaking Scottish football's four decade-long stranglehold. They now lead by eight points for the team over Celtic, whom they easily dispatched. The challenge is now for others.
Decisive Period in the After the Break
Three second-half minutes were key, once the initial exchanges that was evenly matched. What was so notable after they took a 3-1 lead was how stress-free the remainder of the game was for the Tynecastle team. Kyziridis netted the second goal, drifting inside before firing a powerful effort past the stationary Kasper Schmeichel. Delight increased in the stands, Dane Murray bringing down Cláudio Braga for a spot-kick that Shankland tucked away. Brendan Rodgers appeared frustrated; challenges abound for him.
Supporters began celebrating after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against Celtic.
The Visitors' Fightback
Celtic bounced back from Hearts’ rapid start. Dane Murray, who struggled throughout, turned the ball into his own net due to confusion when trying to deal with a Shankland cross. The Hoops worked their way into the game, leader Callum McGregor, scoring a Kieran Tierney pass for 1-1.
Stubborn Defence
The shot-stopper Schwolow, who had denied from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, kept out an Arne Engels shot which flicked off Tómas Magnússon. Halkett blocked a Yamada attempt in stoppage time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the game concluded. “We stand firm” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the ground. It's hard to ignore the noise.
- Detailed coverage to follow.
