Hearts Push 8 Points Clear at Top After Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Sees Off Celtic
History wasn't made at Tynecastle Park, as it's far too early for such achievements. The encounter underlined is that the Edinburgh club possess a real strong chance of breaking Scottish football's 40-year title duopoly. That advantage stands at eight points for the team over the visitors, whom they comfortably swatted aside. The challenge is now for others.
Turning Point in the Second Half
A brief but pivotal phase proved decisive, following a tight first half that was fiercely fought. What was so notable after they extended their advantage was how untroubled the remainder of the game was for the Tynecastle team. Alexandros Kyziridis doubled the lead, moving infield before thumping a right-footed shot past the motionless the Celtic keeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Dane Murray upending the Hearts player for a penalty that Shankland converted. Brendan Rodgers looked dejected; his problems are mounting.
Supporters began celebrating after Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against Celtic.
The Visitors' Fightback
The away side responded positively from an early setback. Murray, who endured a torrid afternoon, conceded an own goal due to panic when trying to clear a delivery from Shankland. The Hoops worked their way into the game, leader Callum McGregor, finishing a Tierney pull-back for level terms.
Solid Backline
The shot-stopper Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Nygren in the first half, kept out an Arne Engels shot which deflected off Tómas Magnússon. Halkett blocked a Yamada attempt in stoppage time. They comfortably saw out the game as the clock ticked down. “We remain resolute” has become the favoured chant at Tynecastle. It is becoming increasingly difficult the excitement.
- Full report coming soon.
