The Tynecastle side Move Eight Points Clear Clear at Top Following Lawrence Shankland's Spot-Kick Overcomes Celtic
History wasn't made at Tynecastle Park, with it being far too early for such achievements. What this match did emphasise is that the Edinburgh club have a genuine serious opportunity of breaking Scottish football's four decade-long dominance by two. They now lead by eight points for Hearts over Celtic, whom they decisively beat. The challenge is now for others.
Key Moments in the After the Break
Three second-half minutes were key, following a tight first half that was evenly matched. What was so notable after they extended their advantage was how untroubled the rest of the game was for the home side. The Greek winger doubled the lead, moving infield before firing a powerful effort past the stationary the Celtic keeper. Delight increased in the stands, Dane Murray bringing down the Hearts player for a spot-kick that Shankland converted. Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
Fans start to rejoice after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against Celtic.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic bounced back from an early setback. Dane Murray, who struggled throughout, conceded an own goal due to confusion when trying to clear a ball into the box. Celtic edged their way back into the game, the captain McGregor, finishing a Kieran Tierney pass for level terms.
Solid Backline
The shot-stopper Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Nygren in the first half, parried an Engels shot which deflected off Magnússon. Halkett stopped a Shin Yamada attempt in stoppage time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the game concluded. “We stand firm” has become the favoured chant at Tynecastle. One cannot overlook the buzz.
- Complete analysis coming soon.
