The Jambos Extend Eight Points Ahead at the Summit After Shankland's Spot-Kick Sees Off Celtic
A historic moment didn't occur at Tynecastle, since it's far too early for such achievements. The encounter underlined is that Heart of Midlothian possess a real strong chance of ending Scottish football's 40-year title duopoly. They now lead by eight points for Hearts over Celtic, whom they decisively beat. Catch them if you can.
Turning Point in the Latter Period
Three second-half minutes were key, after an opening period that was fiercely fought. It was remarkable after they took a 3-1 lead was how untroubled the closing stages of the game was for the home side. Alexandros Kyziridis scored Hearts’ second, moving infield before firing a powerful effort past the static Kasper Schmeichel. More joy followed in the stands, Murray bringing down Cláudio Braga for a foul that Lawrence Shankland tucked away. The Celtic manager looked dejected; his problems are mounting.
Fans start to rejoice after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against the opposition.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic had actually recovered well from Hearts’ rapid start. Murray, who struggled throughout, scored an own goal due to confusion when trying to deal with a ball into the box. The Hoops worked their way into the game, skipper Callum McGregor, scoring a Tierney pull-back for the equaliser.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The Hearts goalkeeper Schwolow, who had denied from Nygren in the first half, parried an Engels shot which deflected off Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett thwarted a Shin Yamada attempt in stoppage time. The hosts faced little else as the game concluded. “We shall not be moved” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at Tynecastle. It is becoming increasingly difficult the buzz.
- Complete analysis coming soon.
