The Jambos Move 8 Points Clear at Top After Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Defeats The Hoops
History wasn't made at Tynecastle, with it being far too early for such achievements. The encounter underlined is that Heart of Midlothian possess a real credible shot of breaking Scottish football's 40-year 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.
Decisive Period in the After the Break
A brief but pivotal phase made the difference, following a tight first half that was contested closely. It was remarkable after they took a 3-1 lead was how comfortable the remainder of the game was for the hosts. Alexandros Kyziridis doubled the lead, drifting inside before firing a powerful effort past the motionless Kasper Schmeichel. Delight increased in the stands, Murray bringing down the Hearts player for a penalty that the captain slotted home. Brendan Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; challenges abound for him.
Supporters began celebrating after Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against the opposition.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic had actually recovered well from an early setback. Dane Murray, who endured a torrid afternoon, conceded an own goal due to confusion when trying to clear a Shankland cross. Celtic edged their way back into the game, the captain Callum McGregor, finishing a Kieran Tierney pull-back for level terms.
Stubborn Defence
The shot-stopper Alexander Schwolow, who had denied from Nygren in the first half, kept out an Engels shot which touched Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett thwarted a Shin Yamada attempt in the dying moments. The hosts faced little else as the game concluded. “We remain resolute” has become the favoured chant at the ground. It is becoming increasingly difficult the excitement.
- Complete analysis to follow.
