Hearts Move Eight Points in Front at the Summit After Lawrence Shankland's Spot-Kick Defeats Celtic
We did not witness at their home ground, with it being far too early for such milestones. What this match did emphasise is that Heart of Midlothian have a genuine strong chance of disrupting Scottish football's long-standing dominance by two. That advantage stands at eight points for the maroon side over the visitors, whom they comfortably swatted aside. Catch them if you can.
Turning Point in the After the Break
A crucial three-minute spell made the difference, once the initial exchanges that was contested closely. What was so notable after they took a 3-1 lead was how stress-free the closing stages of the game was for the home side. Alexandros Kyziridis doubled the lead, moving infield before firing a powerful effort past the stationary the goalkeeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, the Celtic defender fouling the Hearts player for a penalty that Shankland tucked away. Brendan Rodgers appeared frustrated; challenges abound for him.
Supporters began celebrating after Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against the opposition.
The Visitors' Fightback
The away side responded positively from Hearts’ rapid start. Dane Murray, who endured a torrid afternoon, scored an own goal due to panic when trying to remove a Shankland cross. The Hoops worked their way into the game, skipper Callum McGregor, scoring a Kieran Tierney pull-back for 1-1.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The shot-stopper Schwolow, who had denied from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, kept out an Arne Engels shot which deflected off Magnússon. Craig Halkett thwarted a Yamada attempt in added time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the minutes passed. “We remain resolute” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the ground. It is becoming increasingly difficult the buzz.
- Complete analysis coming soon.
