Hearts Push 8 Points Ahead Clear at Top After Shankland's Penalty Sees Off Celtic
We did not witness at Tynecastle Park, with it being far too early for such milestones. What this match did emphasise is that Heart of Midlothian have a genuine credible shot of breaking Scottish football's four decade-long dominance by two. That advantage stands at eight points for Hearts over their rivals, whom they decisively beat. Catch them if you can.
Decisive Period in the After the Break
Three second-half minutes made the difference, once the initial exchanges that was fiercely fought. The striking aspect after they took a 3-1 lead was how untroubled the remainder of the game was for the home side. Kyziridis netted the second goal, cutting in from the left before thumping a right-footed shot past the static the Celtic keeper. Delight increased in the stands, Murray bringing down Cláudio Braga for a penalty that Shankland tucked away. The Celtic manager appeared frustrated; challenges abound for him.
Supporters began celebrating after Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against the opposition.
Hoops' Reaction
The away side responded positively from an early setback. Murray, who struggled throughout, 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, the captain Callum McGregor, scoring a Kieran Tierney cutback for 1-1.
Solid Backline
The Hearts goalkeeper Alexander Schwolow, who had denied from Nygren in the first half, kept out an Engels shot which deflected off Magnússon. Halkett blocked a Yamada attempt in the dying moments. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the game concluded. “We stand firm” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the ground. It is becoming increasingly difficult the excitement.
- Full report coming soon.
