Hearts Push 8 Points Ahead Ahead at the Summit Following Shankland's Penalty Kick Overcomes The Hoops
We did not witness at Tynecastle Park, since it's far too early for such achievements. What this match did emphasise is that the Edinburgh club possess a real serious opportunity of breaking Scottish football's long-standing dominance by two. Make that an eight-point lead for the team over Celtic, whom they easily dispatched. Try to chase them down.
Decisive Period in the After the Break
A crucial three-minute spell made the difference, once the initial exchanges that was evenly matched. What was so notable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how untroubled the closing stages of the game was for the home side. Kyziridis netted the second goal, moving infield before firing a powerful effort past the stationary the goalkeeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Dane Murray fouling Braga for a penalty that Shankland converted. Brendan Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; his problems are mounting.
Fans start to rejoice after Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against Celtic.
The Visitors' Fightback
Celtic had actually recovered well from Hearts’ rapid start. The defender, who had a difficult day, conceded an own goal due to confusion when trying to remove a ball into the box. They gradually fought back into the game, skipper McGregor, turning home a Kieran Tierney pull-back for level terms.
Solid Backline
The shot-stopper Alexander Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Nygren in the first half, kept out an Engels shot which flicked off Magnússon. Craig Halkett stopped a Yamada attempt in added time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the game concluded. “We shall not be moved” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the ground. One cannot overlook the buzz.
- Full report coming soon.
