Hearts Push 8 Points Clear in Front at Top Following Lawrence Shankland's Spot-Kick Overcomes The Hoops
We did not witness at Tynecastle Park, with it being far too early for such achievements. The encounter underlined is that Hearts are at least in with credible shot of breaking Scottish football's four decade-long stranglehold. Make that an eight-point lead for the team over the visitors, whom they decisively beat. Catch them if you can.
Turning Point in the Latter Period
A brief but pivotal phase made the difference, after an opening period that was evenly matched. It was remarkable after they extended their advantage was how comfortable the remainder of the game was for the hosts. Kyziridis scored Hearts’ second, drifting inside before thumping a right-footed shot past the motionless Kasper Schmeichel. More joy followed in the stands, Dane Murray upending Braga for a penalty that Lawrence Shankland converted. Rodgers appeared frustrated; challenges abound for him.
Supporters began celebrating after Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against Celtic.
Celtic's Response
Celtic had actually recovered well from an early setback. Murray, who endured a torrid afternoon, conceded an own goal due to confusion when trying to clear a ball into the box. Celtic edged their way back into the game, skipper McGregor, turning home a Tierney pass for the equaliser.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The Hearts goalkeeper Alexander Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, kept out an Engels shot which flicked off Magnússon. Craig Halkett thwarted a Shin Yamada attempt in the dying moments. The hosts faced little else as the clock ticked down. “We shall not be moved” has become the favoured chant at Tynecastle. One cannot overlook the buzz.
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