Hearts Move Eight Points Clear in Front at Top Following Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Sees Off Celtic
A historic moment didn't occur at Tynecastle Park, as it's far too early for such achievements. What this match did emphasise is that Heart of Midlothian are at least in with strong chance of ending Scottish football's four decade-long stranglehold. That advantage stands at eight points for Hearts over Celtic, whom they comfortably swatted aside. Catch them if you can.
Turning Point in the After the Break
A brief but pivotal phase were key, following a tight first half that was fiercely fought. What was so notable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how stress-free the closing stages of the game was for the Tynecastle team. Alexandros Kyziridis scored Hearts’ second, cutting in from the left before firing a powerful effort past the stationary the Celtic keeper. More joy followed in the stands, Murray fouling the Hearts player for a penalty that Lawrence Shankland tucked away. The Celtic manager looked dejected; challenges abound for him.
Fans start to rejoice after Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against Celtic.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic had actually recovered well from Hearts’ rapid start. The defender, who endured a torrid afternoon, conceded an own goal due to haste when trying to remove a ball into the box. They gradually fought back into the game, skipper McGregor, turning home a Tierney pass for 1-1.
Stubborn Defence
The keeper Schwolow, who had denied from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, blocked an Engels shot which deflected off Magnússon. Craig Halkett thwarted a Yamada attempt in stoppage time. They comfortably saw out the game as the game concluded. “We stand firm” has become the favoured chant at Tynecastle. One cannot overlook the excitement.
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