The Jambos Extend Eight Points Ahead Clear at Top After Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Kick Defeats The Hoops
History wasn't made at Tynecastle Park, with it being far too early for such milestones. The encounter underlined is that Hearts are at least in with strong chance of breaking Scottish football's long-standing stranglehold. They now lead by eight points for the team over the visitors, whom they easily dispatched. The challenge is now for others.
Turning Point in the Latter Period
A brief but pivotal phase made the difference, following a tight first half that was fiercely fought. What was so notable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how untroubled the closing stages of the game was for the home side. Alexandros Kyziridis netted the second goal, cutting in from the left before thumping a right-footed shot past the stationary Kasper Schmeichel. Delight increased in the stands, Dane Murray bringing down the Hearts player for a penalty that Lawrence Shankland converted. Brendan Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
Fans start to rejoice after Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against Celtic.
Celtic's Response
Celtic bounced back from Hearts’ rapid start. The defender, who had a difficult day, scored an own goal due to haste when trying to deal with a delivery from Shankland. The Hoops worked their way into the game, skipper McGregor, scoring a Kieran Tierney pull-back for level terms.
Stubborn Defence
The keeper Schwolow, who had denied from Nygren in the first half, parried an Arne Engels shot which deflected off Magnússon. Halkett blocked a Shin Yamada attempt in stoppage time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the minutes passed. “We remain resolute” has become the favoured chant at the stadium. It's hard to ignore the noise.
- Detailed coverage to follow.
