The Tynecastle side Extend Eight Points Clear Ahead at the Pinnacle After Lawrence Shankland's Spot-Kick Defeats Celtic
A historic moment didn't occur at Tynecastle, as it's far too early for such achievements. This game highlighted is that Hearts are at least in with serious opportunity of ending Scottish football's 40-year dominance by two. That advantage stands at eight points for Hearts over Celtic, whom they easily dispatched. Try to chase them down.
Decisive Period in the Second Half
Three second-half minutes made the difference, once the initial exchanges that was fiercely fought. What was so notable after they extended their advantage was how comfortable the closing stages of the game was for the hosts. The Greek winger netted the second goal, drifting inside before blasting a strike past the static the Celtic keeper. More joy followed in the stands, Murray bringing down the Hearts player for a spot-kick that the captain converted. Rodgers looked dejected; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
The crowd erupted after Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against the opposition.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic had actually recovered well from the hosts' quick opening. Murray, who struggled throughout, turned the ball into his own net due to confusion when trying to deal with a delivery from Shankland. Celtic edged their way back into the game, skipper McGregor, finishing a Kieran Tierney pass for the equaliser.
Stubborn Defence
The shot-stopper Alexander Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, parried an Arne Engels shot which flicked off Tómas Magnússon. Halkett stopped a Yamada attempt in stoppage time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the game concluded. “We shall not be moved” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at Tynecastle. One cannot overlook the buzz.
- Full report coming soon.
