The Tynecastle side Extend 8 Points Ahead in Front at Top Following Lawrence Shankland's Spot-Kick Overcomes Celtic
We did not witness at Tynecastle, with it being far too early for such achievements. This game highlighted is that the Edinburgh club have a genuine serious opportunity of ending Scottish football's 40-year stranglehold. Make that an eight-point lead for the team over Celtic, whom they easily dispatched. The challenge is now for others.
Turning Point in the Second Half
Three second-half minutes made the difference, after an opening period that was fiercely fought. It was remarkable after they extended their advantage was how comfortable the rest of the game was for the home side. Kyziridis doubled the lead, cutting in from the left before blasting a strike past the stationary Kasper Schmeichel. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, the Celtic defender fouling Braga for a penalty that the captain slotted home. Rodgers looked dejected; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
Fans start to rejoice after Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against Celtic.
Hoops' Reaction
The away side responded positively from Hearts’ rapid start. Dane Murray, who struggled throughout, scored an own goal due to confusion when trying to remove a delivery from Shankland. The Hoops worked their way into the game, skipper Callum McGregor, turning home a Kieran Tierney pass for level terms.
Stubborn Defence
The shot-stopper Alexander Schwolow, who had denied from Nygren in the first half, blocked an Arne Engels shot which touched Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett thwarted a Yamada attempt in the dying moments. They comfortably saw out the game as the game concluded. “We stand firm” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the ground. It is becoming increasingly difficult the excitement.
- Full report will be available.
