The Jambos Push Eight Points Clear at the Summit Following Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Kick Defeats Celtic
A historic moment didn't occur at their home ground, with it being far too early for such milestones. What this match did emphasise is that the Edinburgh club possess a real strong chance of disrupting Scottish football's 40-year dominance by two. Make that an eight-point lead for the team over Celtic, whom they easily dispatched. The challenge is now for others.
Decisive Period in the Second Half
A crucial three-minute spell were key, following a tight first half that was fiercely fought. It was remarkable after they extended their advantage was how untroubled the remainder of the game was for the Tynecastle team. The Greek winger doubled the lead, cutting in from the left before thumping a right-footed shot past the static Kasper Schmeichel. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Dane Murray upending Cláudio Braga for a penalty that Lawrence Shankland tucked away. Brendan Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
Fans start to rejoice after Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against the opposition.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic bounced back from Hearts’ rapid start. Murray, who had a difficult day, scored an own goal due to haste when trying to deal with a delivery from Shankland. Celtic edged their way back into the game, skipper McGregor, scoring a Kieran Tierney pull-back for the equaliser.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The shot-stopper Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Nygren in the first half, parried an Engels shot which touched Magnússon. Halkett blocked a Yamada attempt in the dying moments. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the game concluded. “We remain resolute” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the ground. One cannot overlook the buzz.
- Complete analysis coming soon.
