Hearts Extend 8 Points Clear Ahead at the Pinnacle Following Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Kick Defeats The Hoops
We did not witness at their home ground, since it's far too early for such milestones. The encounter underlined is that Heart of Midlothian are at least in with strong chance of breaking Scottish football's four decade-long dominance by two. 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
Three second-half minutes were key, after an opening period that was evenly matched. The striking aspect after they extended their advantage was how stress-free the closing stages of the game was for the home side. Alexandros Kyziridis netted the second goal, drifting inside before blasting a strike past the static Kasper Schmeichel. Delight increased in the stands, Dane Murray upending the Hearts player for a spot-kick that Shankland converted. Brendan Rodgers looked dejected; challenges abound for him.
Fans start to rejoice after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against the opposition.
Celtic's Response
Celtic bounced back from an early setback. Dane Murray, who had a difficult day, scored an own goal due to panic when trying to clear a ball into the box. The Hoops worked their way into the game, skipper Callum McGregor, scoring a Kieran Tierney pass for 1-1.
Stubborn Defence
The Hearts goalkeeper Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Nygren in the first half, blocked an Arne Engels shot which deflected off Tómas Magnússon. Halkett stopped a Yamada attempt in stoppage time. The hosts faced little else as the clock ticked down. “We shall not be moved” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the ground. It is becoming increasingly difficult the excitement.
- Full report coming soon.
