The Jambos Push 8 Points Ahead Ahead at the Summit After Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Overcomes Celtic
A historic moment didn't occur at Tynecastle Park, since it's far too early for such milestones. The encounter underlined is that Heart of Midlothian have a genuine serious opportunity of disrupting Scottish football's long-standing dominance by two. Make that an eight-point lead for Hearts over Celtic, whom they comfortably swatted aside. The challenge is now for others.
Turning Point in the Second Half
A crucial three-minute spell proved decisive, after an opening period that was evenly matched. What was so notable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how comfortable the closing stages of the game was for the hosts. Kyziridis netted the second goal, drifting inside before blasting a strike past the motionless the Celtic keeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, the Celtic defender upending Cláudio Braga for a penalty that Lawrence Shankland tucked away. The Celtic manager cut such a disconsolate figure; his problems are mounting.
Fans start to rejoice after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against Celtic.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic bounced back from Hearts’ rapid start. Murray, who had a difficult day, turned the ball into his own net due to confusion when trying to clear a Shankland cross. They gradually fought back into the game, skipper Callum McGregor, scoring a Tierney cutback for 1-1.
Stubborn Defence
The keeper Schwolow, who had denied from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, kept out an Arne Engels shot which flicked off Tómas Magnússon. Halkett stopped a Yamada attempt in added time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the game concluded. “We shall not be moved” has become the popular anthem at the ground. One cannot overlook the buzz.
- Full report to follow.
