Hearts Extend 8 Points Ahead in Front at the Pinnacle After Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Defeats Celtic
We did not witness at Tynecastle, since it's far too early for such milestones. The encounter underlined is that Hearts are at least in with credible shot of disrupting Scottish football's four decade-long dominance by two. That advantage stands at eight points for the maroon side over Celtic, whom they decisively beat. The challenge is now for others.
Turning Point in the Second Half
A brief but pivotal phase were key, once the initial exchanges that was fiercely fought. It was remarkable after they extended their advantage was how comfortable the remainder of the game was for the home side. Alexandros Kyziridis doubled the lead, cutting in from the left before firing a powerful effort past the static the Celtic keeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Dane Murray fouling Braga for a spot-kick that the captain tucked away. Brendan Rodgers appeared frustrated; challenges abound for him.
Fans start to rejoice after Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against Celtic.
The Visitors' Fightback
Celtic bounced back from Hearts’ rapid start. Murray, who had a difficult day, scored an own goal due to panic when trying to deal with a ball into the box. Celtic edged their way back into the game, skipper Callum McGregor, scoring a Kieran Tierney pass for level terms.
Solid Backline
The keeper Alexander Schwolow, who had denied from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, parried an Arne Engels shot which touched Magnússon. Craig Halkett blocked a Shin Yamada attempt in the dying moments. They comfortably saw out the game as the clock ticked down. “We remain resolute” has become the popular anthem at the ground. It's hard to ignore the excitement.
- Full report to follow.
