Hearts Move 8 Points Clear Ahead at Top Following Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Kick Sees Off Celtic
A historic moment didn't occur at Tynecastle Park, with it being far too early for such milestones. What this match did emphasise is that Hearts are at least in with strong chance of ending Scottish football's 40-year 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 Second Half
A crucial three-minute spell were key, following a tight first half that was evenly matched. The striking aspect after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how stress-free the closing stages of the game was for the home side. Alexandros Kyziridis netted the second goal, cutting in from the left before blasting a strike past the static Kasper Schmeichel. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Dane Murray upending Cláudio Braga for a penalty that Lawrence Shankland converted. Brendan Rodgers looked dejected; challenges abound for him.
Fans start to rejoice after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against Celtic.
Celtic's Response
The away side responded positively from the hosts' quick opening. Murray, who had a difficult day, turned the ball into his own net due to panic when trying to clear a delivery from Shankland. Celtic edged their way back into the game, the captain Callum McGregor, finishing a Tierney pull-back for 1-1.
Stubborn Defence
The shot-stopper Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Nygren in the first half, kept out an Engels shot which touched Tómas Magnússon. Halkett blocked a Yamada attempt in stoppage time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the clock ticked down. “We stand firm” has become the popular anthem at Tynecastle. It's hard to ignore the noise.
- Full report to follow.
