The Tynecastle side Extend 8 Points Ahead Ahead at the Pinnacle After Lawrence Shankland's Spot-Kick Overcomes Celtic
A historic moment didn't occur at Tynecastle Park, since it's far too early for such milestones. This game highlighted is that Hearts are at least in with credible shot of disrupting Scottish football's four decade-long title duopoly. They now lead by eight points for the maroon side over their rivals, whom they comfortably swatted aside. Catch them if you can.
Turning Point in the Second Half
A brief but pivotal phase were key, after an opening period that was contested closely. It was remarkable after they extended their advantage was how untroubled the remainder of the game was for the Tynecastle team. Alexandros Kyziridis doubled the lead, drifting inside before firing a powerful effort past the static the goalkeeper. More joy followed in the stands, the Celtic defender fouling Cláudio Braga for a penalty that Shankland slotted home. The Celtic manager looked dejected; challenges abound for him.
Supporters began celebrating 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 struggled throughout, conceded an own goal due to confusion when trying to deal with a ball into the box. They gradually fought back into the game, skipper Callum McGregor, finishing a Kieran Tierney cutback for the equaliser.
Stubborn Defence
The keeper Alexander Schwolow, who had denied from Nygren in the first half, parried an Arne Engels shot which deflected off Magnússon. Craig Halkett thwarted a Shin Yamada attempt in stoppage time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the minutes passed. “We stand firm” has become the popular anthem at the ground. It's hard to ignore the excitement.
- Full report coming soon.
