Hearts Move 8 Points in Front at Top Following Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Kick Overcomes The Hoops
We did not witness at Tynecastle, with it being far too early for such milestones. What this match did emphasise is that Hearts are at least in with serious opportunity of ending Scottish football's 40-year stranglehold. Make that an eight-point lead for the maroon side over their rivals, whom they decisively beat. Catch them if you can.
Decisive Period in the Second Half
Three second-half minutes made the difference, following a tight first half that was fiercely fought. What was so notable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how comfortable the rest of the game was for the hosts. Alexandros Kyziridis scored Hearts’ second, drifting inside before thumping a right-footed shot past the static the Celtic keeper. More joy followed in the stands, the Celtic defender fouling Braga for a spot-kick that Shankland tucked away. Brendan Rodgers appeared frustrated; his problems are mounting.
The crowd erupted after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against the opposition.
The Visitors' Fightback
Celtic bounced back from an early setback. Dane Murray, who endured a torrid afternoon, conceded an own goal due to confusion when trying to remove a ball into the box. They gradually fought back into the game, skipper McGregor, finishing a Tierney pull-back for 1-1.
Solid Backline
The shot-stopper Alexander Schwolow, who had denied from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, parried an Arne Engels shot which touched Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett stopped a Shin Yamada attempt in the dying moments. They comfortably saw out the game as the minutes passed. “We shall not be moved” has become the favoured chant at Tynecastle. It's hard to ignore the excitement.
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