Hearts Push Eight Points Ahead Ahead at the Pinnacle After Lawrence Shankland's Spot-Kick Defeats The Hoops
A historic moment didn't occur at their home ground, as it's far too early for such landmarks. The encounter underlined is that Hearts are at least in with strong chance of disrupting Scottish football's four decade-long title duopoly. Make that an eight-point lead for Hearts over Celtic, whom they decisively beat. Try to chase them down.
Decisive Period in the After the Break
A brief but pivotal phase made the difference, once the initial exchanges that was contested closely. The striking aspect after they extended their advantage was how comfortable the closing stages of the game was for the Tynecastle team. Alexandros Kyziridis scored Hearts’ second, drifting inside before firing a powerful effort past the stationary the Celtic keeper. More joy followed in the stands, Murray upending Braga for a penalty that Shankland tucked away. Rodgers looked dejected; his problems are mounting.
The crowd erupted after Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against Celtic.
Celtic's Response
Celtic bounced back from the hosts' quick opening. Dane Murray, who struggled throughout, conceded an own goal due to confusion when trying to clear a ball into the box. The Hoops worked their way into the game, skipper McGregor, finishing a Tierney pass for the equaliser.
Stubborn Defence
The shot-stopper Alexander Schwolow, who had denied from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, blocked an Arne Engels shot which touched Tómas Magnússon. Halkett thwarted a Shin Yamada attempt in the dying moments. The hosts faced little else as the game concluded. “We shall not be moved” has become the popular anthem at the stadium. It is becoming increasingly difficult the noise.
- Detailed coverage coming soon.
