Hearts Extend Eight Points Clear in Front at the Summit After Lawrence Shankland's Spot-Kick Overcomes The Hoops
We did not witness at their home ground, with it being far too early for such achievements. This game highlighted is that Hearts have a genuine credible shot of ending Scottish football's four decade-long title duopoly. They now lead by eight points for Hearts over the visitors, whom they easily dispatched. The challenge is now for others.
Turning Point in the Latter Period
A crucial three-minute spell were key, once the initial exchanges that was evenly matched. The striking aspect after they extended their advantage was how stress-free the closing stages of the game was for the hosts. Kyziridis netted the second goal, drifting inside before blasting a strike past the static Kasper Schmeichel. More joy followed in the stands, the Celtic defender bringing down the Hearts player for a spot-kick that the captain tucked away. Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; challenges abound for him.
The crowd erupted after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against the opposition.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic bounced back from an early setback. Murray, who endured a torrid afternoon, conceded an own goal due to confusion when trying to clear a Shankland cross. They gradually fought back into the game, skipper McGregor, finishing a Tierney cutback for 1-1.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The shot-stopper Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Nygren in the first half, parried an Engels shot which touched Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett stopped a Shin Yamada attempt in the dying moments. They comfortably saw out the game as the minutes passed. “We remain resolute” has become the favoured chant at Tynecastle. One cannot overlook the excitement.
- Full report coming soon.
