The Tynecastle side Push Eight Points Ahead Clear at the Pinnacle Following Lawrence Shankland's Spot-Kick Overcomes Celtic
History wasn't made at Tynecastle, with it being far too early for such milestones. What this match did emphasise is that the Edinburgh club have a genuine strong chance of ending Scottish football's long-standing title duopoly. They now lead by eight points for Hearts over the visitors, whom they comfortably swatted aside. Try to chase them down.
Turning Point in the Latter Period
A crucial three-minute spell were key, after an opening period that was contested closely. What was so notable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how comfortable the remainder of the game was for the home side. Kyziridis netted the second goal, moving infield before thumping a right-footed shot past the motionless the goalkeeper. Delight increased in the stands, Murray bringing down Cláudio Braga for a spot-kick that the captain tucked away. Brendan Rodgers looked dejected; his problems are mounting.
Supporters began celebrating after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against the opposition.
The Visitors' Fightback
The away side responded positively from Hearts’ rapid start. The defender, who endured a torrid afternoon, conceded an own goal due to haste when trying to remove a delivery from Shankland. Celtic edged their way back into the game, leader McGregor, scoring a Tierney pass for the equaliser.
Stubborn Defence
The Hearts goalkeeper Alexander Schwolow, who had denied from Nygren in the first half, parried an Arne Engels shot which deflected off Magnússon. Craig Halkett blocked a Yamada attempt in added time. They comfortably saw out the game as the clock ticked down. “We shall not be moved” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the ground. It's hard to ignore the buzz.
- Detailed coverage coming soon.
