The Tynecastle side Push Eight Points Clear in Front at Top Following Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Sees Off The Hoops
A historic moment didn't occur at Tynecastle Park, as it's far too early for such landmarks. What this match did emphasise is that the Edinburgh club are at least in with serious opportunity of breaking Scottish football's 40-year dominance by two. Make that an eight-point lead for the team over Celtic, whom they comfortably swatted aside. Try to chase them down.
Turning Point in the Second Half
A brief but pivotal phase proved decisive, after an opening period that was evenly matched. The striking aspect after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how comfortable the remainder of the game was for the hosts. Alexandros Kyziridis scored Hearts’ second, moving infield before thumping a right-footed shot past the static the goalkeeper. Delight increased in the stands, Dane Murray fouling Cláudio Braga for a spot-kick that Shankland converted. The Celtic manager appeared frustrated; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
Supporters began celebrating after Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against Celtic.
The Visitors' Fightback
Celtic bounced back from the hosts' quick opening. The defender, who struggled throughout, scored an own goal due to panic when trying to clear a Shankland cross. The Hoops worked their way into the game, the captain Callum McGregor, scoring a Tierney pull-back for level terms.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The keeper Alexander Schwolow, who had denied from Nygren in the first half, blocked an Engels shot which touched Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett blocked a Shin Yamada attempt in stoppage time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the minutes passed. “We shall not be moved” has become the favoured chant at the stadium. It is becoming increasingly difficult the excitement.
- Complete analysis coming soon.
