Hearts Push 8 Points Clear at the Pinnacle After Lawrence Shankland's Spot-Kick Overcomes Celtic
A historic moment didn't occur at their home ground, since it's far too early for such landmarks. What this match did emphasise is that Hearts are at least in with credible shot of disrupting Scottish football's 40-year dominance by two. Make that an eight-point lead for Hearts over Celtic, whom they comfortably swatted aside. The challenge is now for others.
Turning Point in the After the Break
A crucial three-minute spell were key, once the initial exchanges that was fiercely fought. It was remarkable after they took a 3-1 lead was how stress-free the remainder of the game was for the Tynecastle team. Alexandros Kyziridis doubled the lead, moving infield before thumping a right-footed shot past the motionless the Celtic keeper. More joy followed in the stands, Dane Murray upending Cláudio Braga for a spot-kick that the captain slotted home. The Celtic manager cut such a disconsolate figure; challenges abound for him.
Supporters began celebrating after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against Celtic.
Celtic's Response
Celtic had actually recovered well from Hearts’ rapid start. The defender, who endured a torrid afternoon, turned the ball into his own net due to haste when trying to deal with a delivery from Shankland. They gradually fought back into the game, skipper McGregor, finishing a Kieran Tierney cutback for level terms.
Stubborn Defence
The shot-stopper Alexander Schwolow, who had denied from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, blocked an Engels shot which touched Tómas Magnússon. Halkett stopped a Yamada attempt in added time. The hosts faced little else as the clock ticked down. “We shall not be moved” has become the favoured chant at the ground. One cannot overlook the buzz.
- Detailed coverage to follow.
