The Jambos Extend 8 Points Ahead at Top After Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Kick Overcomes Celtic
A historic moment didn't occur at Tynecastle, since it's far too early for such milestones. This game highlighted is that the Edinburgh club possess a real credible shot of breaking Scottish football's 40-year dominance by two. They now lead by eight points for the maroon side over their rivals, whom they easily dispatched. The challenge is now for others.
Key Moments in the Latter Period
A brief but pivotal phase proved decisive, following a tight first half that was fiercely fought. The striking aspect after they extended their advantage was how stress-free the closing stages of the game was for the hosts. The Greek winger doubled the lead, moving infield before firing a powerful effort past the static the goalkeeper. More joy followed in the stands, Murray fouling the Hearts player for a spot-kick that the captain slotted home. Rodgers looked dejected; challenges abound for him.
The crowd erupted after Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against Celtic.
The Visitors' Fightback
The away side responded positively from the hosts' quick opening. The defender, who endured a torrid afternoon, scored an own goal due to confusion when trying to remove a delivery from Shankland. Celtic edged their way back into the game, leader McGregor, turning home a Kieran Tierney cutback for 1-1.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The shot-stopper Schwolow, who had denied from Nygren in the first half, parried an Engels shot which flicked off Tómas Magnússon. Halkett blocked a Yamada attempt in the dying moments. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the game concluded. “We shall not be moved” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at Tynecastle. One cannot overlook the excitement.
- Complete analysis to follow.
