Hearts Push 8 Points Clear in Front at the Pinnacle After Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Sees Off The Hoops
History wasn't made at their home ground, with it being far too early for such milestones. What this match did emphasise is that Heart of Midlothian are at least in with strong chance of disrupting Scottish football's 40-year stranglehold. That advantage stands at eight points for Hearts over Celtic, whom they decisively beat. The challenge is now for others.
Key Moments in the After the Break
A crucial three-minute spell proved decisive, following a tight first half that was evenly matched. The striking aspect after they took a 3-1 lead was how stress-free the remainder of the game was for the hosts. The Greek winger netted the second goal, moving infield before thumping a right-footed shot past the static the goalkeeper. More joy followed in the stands, the Celtic defender fouling Cláudio Braga for a penalty that Lawrence Shankland slotted home. Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
The crowd erupted after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against Celtic.
The Visitors' Fightback
Celtic had actually recovered well from the hosts' quick opening. The defender, who had a difficult day, scored an own goal due to panic when trying to remove a delivery from Shankland. The Hoops worked their way into the game, the captain Callum McGregor, turning home a Tierney cutback for 1-1.
Solid Backline
The Hearts goalkeeper Alexander Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Nygren in the first half, kept out an Engels shot which deflected off Magnússon. Craig Halkett blocked a Yamada attempt in the dying moments. The hosts faced little else as the game concluded. “We remain resolute” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at Tynecastle. One cannot overlook the noise.
- Full report to follow.
