Hearts Extend 8 Points Ahead at the Pinnacle Following Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Kick Overcomes The Hoops
We did not witness at Tynecastle Park, since it's far too early for such milestones. This game highlighted is that the Edinburgh club have a genuine serious opportunity of disrupting Scottish football's long-standing dominance by two. That advantage stands at eight points for Hearts over the visitors, whom they comfortably swatted aside. The challenge is now for others.
Key Moments in the Second Half
A brief but pivotal phase made the difference, following a tight first half that was evenly matched. What was so notable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how stress-free the closing stages of the game was for the home side. Alexandros Kyziridis doubled the lead, drifting inside before thumping a right-footed shot past the stationary the goalkeeper. More joy followed in the stands, the Celtic defender upending Cláudio Braga for a spot-kick that Lawrence Shankland converted. The Celtic manager looked dejected; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
Supporters began celebrating after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against the opposition.
The Visitors' Fightback
Celtic bounced back from the hosts' quick opening. Dane Murray, who endured a torrid afternoon, conceded an own goal due to panic when trying to remove a ball into the box. They gradually fought back into the game, the captain Callum McGregor, turning home a Kieran Tierney pass for the equaliser.
Stubborn Defence
The keeper Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, parried an Engels shot which touched Magnússon. Craig Halkett stopped a Shin Yamada attempt in the dying moments. They comfortably saw out the game as the clock ticked down. “We shall not be moved” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at Tynecastle. It is becoming increasingly difficult the excitement.
- Detailed coverage will be available.
