Hearts Extend 8 Points Clear at the Pinnacle After Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Kick Defeats The Hoops
History wasn't made at Tynecastle, as it's far too early for such landmarks. What this match did emphasise is that Heart of Midlothian possess a real strong chance of ending Scottish football's long-standing title duopoly. That advantage stands at eight points for the maroon side over their rivals, whom they comfortably swatted aside. Catch them if you can.
Decisive Period in the After the Break
A brief but pivotal phase made the difference, following a tight first half that was fiercely fought. The striking aspect after they extended their advantage was how untroubled the rest of the game was for the hosts. Alexandros Kyziridis doubled the lead, cutting in from the left before blasting a strike past the stationary the Celtic keeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, the Celtic defender fouling Braga for a foul that Lawrence Shankland tucked away. Rodgers looked dejected; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
Supporters began celebrating after Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against the opposition.
Celtic's Response
Celtic had actually recovered well from Hearts’ rapid start. The defender, who struggled throughout, scored an own goal due to haste when trying to clear a ball into the box. Celtic edged their way back into the game, the captain McGregor, scoring a Kieran Tierney pass for level terms.
Solid Backline
The Hearts goalkeeper Alexander Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Nygren in the first half, parried an Engels shot which touched Magnússon. Halkett thwarted a Shin Yamada attempt in stoppage time. The hosts faced little else as the game concluded. “We remain resolute” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at Tynecastle. It is becoming increasingly difficult the buzz.
- Full report coming soon.
