Hearts Push 8 Points Clear at the Summit Following Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Kick Defeats The Hoops
History wasn't made at Tynecastle, as it's far too early for such achievements. This game highlighted is that Hearts have a genuine strong chance of disrupting Scottish football's 40-year title duopoly. That advantage stands at eight points for the maroon side over the visitors, whom they comfortably swatted aside. Catch them if you can.
Key Moments in the Latter Period
A brief but pivotal phase proved decisive, after an opening period that was fiercely fought. What was so notable after they extended their advantage was how comfortable the rest of the game was for the home side. Alexandros Kyziridis netted the second goal, moving infield before firing a powerful effort past the stationary the Celtic keeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Murray bringing down Braga for a spot-kick that Shankland slotted home. Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; his problems are mounting.
Supporters began celebrating after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against Celtic.
Celtic's Response
The away side responded positively from Hearts’ rapid start. Dane Murray, who struggled throughout, turned the ball into his own net due to panic when trying to remove a ball into the box. Celtic edged their way back into the game, skipper Callum McGregor, scoring a Kieran Tierney pull-back for level terms.
Stubborn Defence
The Hearts goalkeeper Alexander Schwolow, who had denied from Nygren in the first half, kept out an Arne Engels shot which flicked off Magnússon. Craig Halkett blocked a Shin Yamada attempt in the dying moments. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the minutes passed. “We remain resolute” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at Tynecastle. One cannot overlook the buzz.
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