The Tynecastle side Push Eight Points Clear Clear at the Pinnacle Following Shankland's Penalty Sees Off The Hoops
We did not witness 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 breaking Scottish football's long-standing title duopoly. Make that an eight-point lead for Hearts over Celtic, whom they easily dispatched. Catch them if you can.
Decisive Period in the Latter Period
A crucial three-minute spell were key, after an opening period that was contested closely. What was so notable after they took a 3-1 lead was how untroubled the rest of the game was for the hosts. Kyziridis scored Hearts’ second, moving infield before firing a powerful effort past the static Kasper Schmeichel. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Dane Murray bringing down Braga for a spot-kick that Lawrence Shankland converted. Brendan Rodgers looked dejected; his problems are mounting.
Fans start to rejoice after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against Celtic.
Hoops' Reaction
The away side responded positively from the hosts' quick opening. Murray, who endured a torrid afternoon, scored an own goal due to confusion when trying to deal with a delivery from Shankland. They gradually fought back into the game, leader McGregor, finishing a Tierney cutback for 1-1.
Solid Backline
The Hearts goalkeeper Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Nygren in the first half, kept out an Arne Engels shot which touched Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett blocked a Yamada attempt in the dying moments. They comfortably saw out the game as the minutes passed. “We shall not be moved” has become the popular anthem at the ground. It is becoming increasingly difficult the buzz.
- Full report to follow.
