The Jambos Move 8 Points in Front at Top After Lawrence Shankland's Spot-Kick Sees Off The Hoops
We did not witness at Tynecastle, with it being far too early for such milestones. The encounter underlined is that the Edinburgh club have a genuine strong chance of disrupting Scottish football's 40-year dominance by two. They now lead by eight points for the maroon side over the visitors, whom they easily dispatched. The challenge is now for others.
Decisive Period in the Second Half
A crucial three-minute spell proved decisive, following a tight first half that was fiercely fought. What was so notable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how stress-free the rest of the game was for the Tynecastle team. Kyziridis doubled the lead, moving infield before blasting a strike past the stationary Kasper Schmeichel. Delight increased in the stands, Murray fouling the Hearts player for a spot-kick that Lawrence Shankland slotted home. Rodgers appeared frustrated; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
Fans start to rejoice after Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against Celtic.
Celtic's Response
Celtic had actually recovered well from the hosts' quick opening. Dane Murray, who had a difficult day, turned the ball into his own net due to panic when trying to clear a delivery from Shankland. The Hoops worked their way into the game, leader Callum McGregor, turning home a Tierney pass for the equaliser.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The shot-stopper Alexander Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, blocked an Arne Engels shot which touched Tómas Magnússon. Halkett blocked a Shin Yamada attempt in the dying moments. The hosts faced little else as the game concluded. “We stand firm” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at Tynecastle. One cannot overlook the excitement.
- Complete analysis to follow.
