The Jambos Push Eight Points in Front at the Summit After Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Defeats The Hoops
We did not witness at Tynecastle, since it's far too early for such landmarks. This game highlighted is that Heart of Midlothian are at least in with credible shot of breaking Scottish football's four decade-long title duopoly. That advantage stands at eight points for Hearts over Celtic, whom they easily dispatched. Catch them if you can.
Decisive Period in the Second Half
A crucial three-minute spell proved decisive, following a tight first half that was evenly matched. It was remarkable after they took a 3-1 lead was how comfortable the rest of the game was for the home side. Alexandros Kyziridis doubled the lead, drifting inside before thumping a right-footed shot past the motionless the Celtic keeper. More joy followed in the stands, the Celtic defender bringing down the Hearts player for a foul that Shankland converted. Rodgers looked dejected; his problems are mounting.
The crowd erupted after Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against the opposition.
Hoops' Reaction
The away side responded positively from an early setback. Murray, who struggled throughout, conceded an own goal due to confusion when trying to clear a delivery from Shankland. The Hoops worked their way into the game, skipper McGregor, finishing a Kieran Tierney pass for level terms.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The shot-stopper Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, parried an Arne Engels shot which flicked off Tómas Magnússon. Halkett blocked a Yamada attempt in added time. The hosts faced little else as the game concluded. “We stand firm” has become the favoured chant at the stadium. It is becoming increasingly difficult the buzz.
- Complete analysis to follow.
