The Tynecastle side Extend Eight Points Ahead at the Summit Following Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Defeats Celtic
We did not witness at Tynecastle Park, as it's far too early for such landmarks. This game highlighted is that Hearts possess a real serious opportunity of breaking Scottish football's 40-year dominance by two. Make that an eight-point lead for Hearts over the visitors, whom they comfortably swatted aside. Try to chase them down.
Key Moments in the Latter Period
A crucial three-minute spell made the difference, following a tight first half that was fiercely fought. The striking aspect after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how comfortable the closing stages of the game was for the hosts. Kyziridis doubled the lead, drifting inside before thumping a right-footed shot past the stationary the Celtic keeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Murray bringing down Braga for a spot-kick that the captain slotted home. The Celtic manager looked dejected; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
Supporters began celebrating after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against Celtic.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic had actually recovered well from the hosts' quick opening. Murray, who had a difficult day, conceded an own goal due to haste when trying to remove a delivery from Shankland. The Hoops worked their way into the game, leader Callum McGregor, scoring a Kieran Tierney pull-back for level terms.
Stubborn Defence
The shot-stopper Alexander Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Nygren in the first half, kept out an Arne Engels shot which flicked off Tómas Magnússon. Halkett blocked a Shin Yamada attempt in the dying moments. The hosts faced little else as the game concluded. “We remain resolute” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the ground. It's hard to ignore the excitement.
- Full report to follow.
