The Jambos Extend 8 Points Clear Ahead at Top Following Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Defeats The Hoops
History wasn't made at Tynecastle, since it's far too early for such milestones. The encounter underlined is that Hearts have a genuine strong chance of disrupting Scottish football's four decade-long title duopoly. Make that an eight-point lead for the maroon side over Celtic, whom they easily dispatched. Try to chase them down.
Key Moments in the After the Break
Three second-half minutes proved decisive, following a tight first half that was fiercely fought. What was so notable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how stress-free the remainder of the game was for the Tynecastle team. Kyziridis scored Hearts’ second, cutting in from the left before thumping a right-footed shot past the static Kasper Schmeichel. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, the Celtic defender bringing down the Hearts player for a foul that the captain tucked away. Brendan Rodgers appeared frustrated; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
Supporters began celebrating after Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against Celtic.
Hoops' Reaction
The away side responded positively from an early setback. Murray, who struggled throughout, scored an own goal due to haste when trying to remove a delivery from Shankland. Celtic edged their way back into the game, the captain McGregor, scoring a Tierney pass for the equaliser.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The shot-stopper Alexander Schwolow, who had denied from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, kept out an Arne Engels shot which touched Magnússon. Craig Halkett stopped a Yamada attempt in added time. They comfortably saw out the game as the game concluded. “We shall not be moved” has become the popular anthem at Tynecastle. It is becoming increasingly difficult the excitement.
- Full report coming soon.
