Hearts Move 8 Points Clear in Front at Top After Lawrence Shankland's Spot-Kick Sees Off The Hoops
History wasn't made at Tynecastle, as it's far too early for such milestones. This game highlighted is that Heart of Midlothian have a genuine strong chance of ending Scottish football's 40-year title duopoly. Make that an eight-point lead for Hearts over the visitors, whom they comfortably swatted aside. Catch them if you can.
Turning Point in the Latter Period
Three second-half minutes were key, following a tight first half that was fiercely fought. It was remarkable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how comfortable the closing stages of the game was for the hosts. The Greek winger netted the second goal, moving infield before firing a powerful effort past the motionless the Celtic keeper. More joy followed in the stands, the Celtic defender upending the Hearts player for a spot-kick that Shankland tucked away. Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; challenges abound for him.
The crowd erupted after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against Celtic.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic bounced back from an early setback. Dane Murray, who endured a torrid afternoon, conceded an own goal due to haste when trying to clear a Shankland cross. They gradually fought back into the game, leader Callum McGregor, scoring a Kieran Tierney pull-back for the equaliser.
Solid Backline
The Hearts goalkeeper Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Nygren in the first half, parried an Engels shot which touched Magnússon. Halkett blocked a Shin Yamada attempt in stoppage time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the clock ticked down. “We stand firm” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at Tynecastle. It is becoming increasingly difficult the excitement.
- Full report coming soon.
