Hearts Move 8 Points in Front at the Pinnacle Following Lawrence Shankland's Spot-Kick Overcomes The Hoops
A historic moment didn't occur at Tynecastle, with it being far too early for such achievements. The encounter underlined is that the Edinburgh club possess a real credible shot of disrupting Scottish football's four decade-long title duopoly. That advantage stands at eight points for the maroon side over Celtic, whom they easily dispatched. Catch them if you can.
Turning Point in the Latter Period
A crucial three-minute spell proved decisive, following a tight first half that was contested closely. It was remarkable after they took a 3-1 lead was how stress-free the closing stages of the game was for the hosts. Kyziridis scored Hearts’ second, moving infield before thumping a right-footed shot past the motionless the Celtic keeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Dane Murray upending Cláudio Braga for a penalty that Shankland converted. Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
Supporters began celebrating after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against the opposition.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic bounced back from the hosts' quick opening. Dane Murray, who struggled throughout, turned the ball into his own net due to confusion when trying to clear a delivery from Shankland. The Hoops worked their way into the game, leader Callum McGregor, scoring a Tierney pass for the equaliser.
Solid Backline
The keeper Alexander Schwolow, who had denied from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, parried an Engels shot which flicked off Tómas Magnússon. Halkett blocked a Shin Yamada attempt in the dying moments. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the game concluded. “We shall not be moved” has become the favoured chant at the stadium. One cannot overlook the buzz.
- Full report will be available.
