Hearts Extend 8 Points Ahead Clear at the Pinnacle After Shankland's Penalty Kick Defeats The Hoops
A historic moment didn't occur at Tynecastle, as it's far too early for such milestones. This game highlighted is that Heart of Midlothian possess a real strong chance of disrupting Scottish football's four decade-long stranglehold. They now lead by eight points for the maroon side over their rivals, whom they comfortably swatted aside. Catch them if you can.
Key Moments in the Latter Period
A brief but pivotal phase made the difference, after an opening period that was fiercely fought. What was so notable after they took a 3-1 lead was how untroubled the rest of the game was for the home side. Alexandros Kyziridis netted the second goal, drifting inside before firing a powerful effort past the motionless Kasper Schmeichel. More joy followed in the stands, the Celtic defender bringing down Cláudio Braga for a spot-kick that Shankland slotted home. The Celtic manager cut such a disconsolate figure; his problems are mounting.
The crowd erupted after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against the opposition.
The Visitors' Fightback
Celtic bounced back from an early setback. Dane Murray, who had a difficult day, turned the ball into his own net due to confusion when trying to deal with a delivery from Shankland. They gradually fought back into the game, skipper McGregor, turning home a Kieran Tierney cutback for the equaliser.
Solid Backline
The Hearts goalkeeper Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, parried an Engels shot which deflected off Magnússon. Halkett blocked a Yamada attempt in stoppage time. The hosts faced little else as the minutes passed. “We stand firm” has become the favoured chant at the stadium. It is becoming increasingly difficult the noise.
- Complete analysis coming soon.
