The Tynecastle side Extend Eight Points Clear Ahead at Top After Lawrence Shankland's Spot-Kick Overcomes Celtic
History wasn't made at their home ground, as it's far too early for such landmarks. This game highlighted is that Heart of Midlothian possess a real strong chance of disrupting Scottish football's four decade-long dominance by two. That advantage stands at eight points for Hearts over Celtic, whom they decisively beat. Catch them if you can.
Key Moments in the Latter Period
A brief but pivotal phase were key, after an opening period that was fiercely fought. What was so notable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how stress-free the remainder of the game was for the home side. The Greek winger doubled the lead, moving infield before blasting a strike past the static the Celtic keeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, the Celtic defender fouling the Hearts player for a penalty that the captain tucked away. The Celtic manager cut such a disconsolate figure; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
The crowd erupted after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against the opposition.
The Visitors' Fightback
Celtic had actually recovered well from an early setback. Dane Murray, who endured a torrid afternoon, conceded an own goal due to panic when trying to deal with a ball into the box. Celtic edged their way back into the game, skipper McGregor, turning home a Tierney cutback for 1-1.
Solid Backline
The shot-stopper Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, kept out an Arne Engels shot which flicked off Tómas Magnússon. Halkett stopped a Shin Yamada attempt in the dying moments. The hosts faced little else as the game concluded. “We remain resolute” has become the popular anthem at Tynecastle. One cannot overlook the noise.
- Detailed coverage coming soon.