Hearts Extend Eight Points Clear Ahead at Top After Lawrence Shankland's Spot-Kick Defeats Celtic
A historic moment didn't occur at their home ground, as it's far too early for such achievements. The encounter underlined is that Heart of Midlothian are at least in with strong chance of ending Scottish football's 40-year dominance by two. Make that an eight-point lead for the maroon side over the visitors, whom they decisively beat. Try to chase them down.
Turning Point in the After the Break
Three second-half minutes made the difference, once the initial exchanges that was fiercely fought. It was remarkable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how comfortable the rest of the game was for the Tynecastle team. The Greek winger scored Hearts’ second, drifting inside before thumping a right-footed shot past the stationary Kasper Schmeichel. Delight increased in the stands, Murray bringing down the Hearts player for a spot-kick that the captain slotted home. Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
The crowd erupted after Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against the opposition.
The Visitors' Fightback
Celtic had actually recovered well from the hosts' quick opening. Dane Murray, who struggled throughout, scored an own goal due to confusion when trying to clear a Shankland cross. Celtic edged their way back into the game, skipper Callum McGregor, finishing a Tierney pull-back for level terms.
Stubborn Defence
The Hearts goalkeeper Schwolow, who had denied from Nygren in the first half, blocked an Engels shot which deflected off Tómas Magnússon. Halkett stopped a Shin Yamada attempt in stoppage time. They comfortably saw out the game as the clock ticked down. “We stand firm” has become the popular anthem at the ground. One cannot overlook the excitement.
- Complete analysis coming soon.
