The Tynecastle side Move 8 Points Clear Clear at the Summit After Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Sees Off Celtic
History wasn't made at Tynecastle, since it's far too early for such achievements. This game highlighted is that Hearts possess a real credible shot of ending Scottish football's four decade-long title duopoly. They now lead by eight points for the team over the visitors, whom they comfortably swatted aside. Catch them if you can.
Turning Point in the Second Half
A crucial three-minute spell made the difference, once the initial exchanges that was contested closely. The striking aspect after they took a 3-1 lead was how comfortable the rest of the game was for the home side. Kyziridis scored Hearts’ second, drifting inside before thumping a right-footed shot past the static Kasper Schmeichel. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, the Celtic defender fouling Cláudio Braga for a spot-kick that Shankland converted. Brendan Rodgers appeared frustrated; challenges abound for him.
Supporters began celebrating after Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against the opposition.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic bounced back from the hosts' quick opening. The defender, who endured a torrid afternoon, conceded an own goal due to haste when trying to remove a ball into the box. The Hoops worked their way into the game, leader Callum McGregor, turning home a Tierney cutback for 1-1.
Solid Backline
The shot-stopper Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, parried an Engels shot which flicked off Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett thwarted a Shin 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 Tynecastle. It's hard to ignore the excitement.
- Detailed coverage to follow.
