The Tynecastle side Move 8 Points Clear Clear at Top After Lawrence Shankland's Spot-Kick Sees Off The Hoops
A historic moment didn't occur at Tynecastle, as it's far too early for such landmarks. This game highlighted is that Hearts are at least in with strong chance of ending Scottish football's long-standing dominance by two. That advantage stands at eight points for the maroon side over Celtic, whom they comfortably swatted aside. Try to chase them down.
Key Moments in the After the Break
A brief but pivotal phase made the difference, after an opening period that was contested closely. The striking aspect after they extended their advantage was how untroubled the closing stages of the game was for the home side. The Greek winger scored Hearts’ second, moving infield before thumping a right-footed shot past the motionless Kasper Schmeichel. Delight increased in the stands, Murray bringing down Braga for a spot-kick that the captain converted. Rodgers looked dejected; challenges abound for him.
Supporters began celebrating after Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against the opposition.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic bounced back from an early setback. Dane Murray, who had a difficult day, scored an own goal due to confusion when trying to clear a Shankland cross. They gradually fought back into the game, leader Callum McGregor, scoring a Kieran Tierney pass for level terms.
Solid Backline
The keeper Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, parried an Engels shot which flicked off Magnússon. Craig Halkett stopped a Shin Yamada attempt in the dying moments. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the game concluded. “We remain resolute” has become the favoured chant at Tynecastle. It is becoming increasingly difficult the excitement.
- Complete analysis to follow.
