Hearts Move 8 Points Clear at the Pinnacle Following Lawrence Shankland's Spot-Kick Sees Off Celtic
We did not witness at Tynecastle, as it's far too early for such landmarks. The encounter underlined is that Heart of Midlothian have a genuine serious opportunity of disrupting Scottish football's 40-year title duopoly. Make that an eight-point lead for the maroon side over Celtic, whom they decisively beat. Try to chase them down.
Turning Point in the Latter Period
A brief but pivotal phase made the difference, after an opening period that was contested closely. What was so notable after they took a 3-1 lead was how comfortable the closing stages of the game was for the home side. Kyziridis doubled the lead, moving infield before thumping a right-footed shot past the motionless the Celtic keeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, the Celtic defender bringing down ClĂĄudio Braga for a foul that the captain converted. Brendan Rodgers looked dejected; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
The crowd erupted after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against Celtic.
Hoops' Reaction
The away side responded positively from the hosts' quick opening. The defender, who had a difficult day, turned the ball into his own net due to confusion when trying to deal with a Shankland cross. They gradually fought back into the game, skipper McGregor, scoring a Kieran Tierney pull-back for level terms.
Solid Backline
The shot-stopper Alexander Schwolow, who had denied from Nygren in the first half, kept out an Arne Engels shot which flicked off TĂłmas MagnĂșsson. Craig Halkett blocked a Yamada attempt in stoppage time. The hosts faced little else as the game concluded. âWe shall not be movedâ has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the ground. One cannot overlook the excitement.
- Detailed coverage coming soon.
