Hearts Push Eight Points Ahead Ahead at the Summit After Shankland's Penalty Kick Defeats Celtic
A historic moment didn't occur at Tynecastle, since it's far too early for such achievements. What this match did emphasise is that Heart of Midlothian possess a real credible shot of disrupting Scottish football's 40-year title duopoly. Make that an eight-point lead for Hearts over their rivals, whom they decisively beat. Try to chase them down.
Key Moments in the Second Half
A brief but pivotal phase were key, once the initial exchanges that was fiercely fought. The striking aspect after they took a 3-1 lead was how comfortable the closing stages of the game was for the hosts. The Greek winger doubled the lead, cutting in from the left before blasting a strike past the motionless Kasper Schmeichel. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Dane Murray fouling Braga for a penalty that Lawrence Shankland slotted home. Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; his problems are mounting.
The crowd erupted after Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against Celtic.
Celtic's Response
Celtic had actually recovered well from Hearts’ rapid start. Dane Murray, who struggled throughout, conceded an own goal due to haste when trying to deal with a ball into the box. They gradually fought back into the game, the captain Callum McGregor, turning home a Tierney pull-back for the equaliser.
Stubborn Defence
The shot-stopper Alexander Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Nygren in the first half, blocked an Arne Engels shot which deflected off Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett stopped a Shin Yamada attempt in added time. The hosts faced little else as the minutes passed. “We shall not be moved” has become the favoured chant at the stadium. One cannot overlook the excitement.
- Full report to follow.
