Hearts Move Eight Points Clear in Front at the Summit After Shankland's Penalty Kick Defeats Celtic
History wasn't made at Tynecastle Park, since it's far too early for such milestones. What this match did emphasise is that the Edinburgh club have a genuine serious opportunity of disrupting Scottish football's four decade-long title duopoly. They now lead by eight points for the team over Celtic, whom they comfortably swatted aside. The challenge is now for others.
Turning Point in the After the Break
A crucial three-minute spell proved decisive, following a tight first half that was fiercely fought. What was so notable after they extended their advantage was how untroubled the remainder of the game was for the home side. Alexandros Kyziridis doubled the lead, drifting inside before thumping a right-footed shot past the static the goalkeeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, the Celtic defender fouling the Hearts player for a spot-kick that Lawrence Shankland tucked away. The Celtic manager cut such a disconsolate figure; challenges abound for him.
Supporters began celebrating after Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against the opposition.
Celtic's Response
The away side responded positively from the hosts' quick opening. Murray, who had a difficult day, scored an own goal due to panic when trying to remove a Shankland cross. The Hoops worked their way into the game, the captain Callum McGregor, finishing a Kieran Tierney pull-back for the equaliser.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The keeper Alexander Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Nygren in the first half, kept out an Engels shot which flicked off Magnússon. Craig Halkett thwarted a Shin Yamada attempt in the dying moments. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the clock ticked down. “We remain resolute” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the ground. It is becoming increasingly difficult the excitement.
- Full report coming soon.
