The Jambos Extend 8 Points Clear Ahead at Top Following Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Kick Overcomes Celtic
A historic moment didn't occur at Tynecastle Park, as it's far too early for such achievements. The encounter underlined is that Hearts have a genuine strong chance of disrupting Scottish football's 40-year stranglehold. Make that an eight-point lead for Hearts over their rivals, whom they decisively beat. Try to chase them down.
Turning Point in the Second Half
A crucial three-minute spell proved decisive, once the initial exchanges that was evenly matched. The striking aspect after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how untroubled the closing stages of the game was for the home side. Alexandros Kyziridis scored Hearts’ second, moving infield before firing a powerful effort past the static the Celtic keeper. Delight increased in the stands, Murray fouling Cláudio Braga for a penalty that the captain tucked away. The Celtic manager cut such a disconsolate figure; his problems are mounting.
The crowd erupted after Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against the opposition.
Celtic's Response
The away side responded positively from an early setback. Dane Murray, who struggled throughout, turned the ball into his own net due to confusion when trying to remove a Shankland cross. The Hoops worked their way into the game, the captain McGregor, turning home a Kieran Tierney pull-back for the equaliser.
Stubborn Defence
The shot-stopper Alexander Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, parried an Engels shot which touched Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett stopped a Yamada attempt in added time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the clock ticked down. “We stand firm” has become the favoured chant at Tynecastle. It's hard to ignore the excitement.
- Complete analysis to follow.
