Hearts Push Eight Points Clear Ahead at Top After Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Sees Off The Hoops
A historic moment didn't occur at their home ground, with it being far too early for such landmarks. The encounter underlined is that Hearts possess a real strong chance of ending Scottish football's long-standing stranglehold. That advantage stands at eight points for Hearts over their rivals, whom they easily dispatched. The challenge is now for others.
Key Moments in the After the Break
A crucial three-minute spell were key, after an opening period that was contested closely. The striking aspect after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how comfortable the closing stages of the game was for the home side. The Greek winger netted the second goal, moving infield before firing a powerful effort past the motionless Kasper Schmeichel. Delight increased in the stands, Murray bringing down Braga for a penalty that the captain slotted home. Rodgers looked dejected; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
Supporters began celebrating after Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against Celtic.
Celtic's Response
Celtic bounced back from an early setback. The defender, who struggled throughout, scored an own goal due to haste when trying to clear a delivery from Shankland. Celtic edged their way back into the game, the captain Callum McGregor, turning home a Tierney pass for the equaliser.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The shot-stopper Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, blocked an Engels shot which deflected off Tómas Magnússon. Halkett stopped a Shin Yamada attempt in the dying moments. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the game concluded. “We stand firm” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the ground. One cannot overlook the noise.
- Full report to follow.
