The Jambos Push 8 Points Ahead at the Pinnacle Following Lawrence Shankland's Spot-Kick Sees Off Celtic
A historic moment didn't occur at Tynecastle Park, with it being far too early for such achievements. The encounter underlined is that Hearts have a genuine serious opportunity of ending Scottish football's 40-year stranglehold. Make that an eight-point lead for the maroon side over Celtic, whom they decisively beat. Catch them if you can.
Decisive Period in the After the Break
A brief but pivotal phase were key, after an opening period that was evenly matched. It was remarkable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how stress-free the remainder of the game was for the hosts. Alexandros Kyziridis doubled the lead, drifting inside before firing a powerful effort past the stationary Kasper Schmeichel. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, the Celtic defender fouling the Hearts player for a penalty that the captain tucked away. Rodgers looked dejected; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
Fans start to rejoice after Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against Celtic.
The Visitors' Fightback
Celtic bounced back from an early setback. The defender, who struggled throughout, conceded an own goal due to panic when trying to deal with a Shankland cross. They gradually fought back into the game, skipper McGregor, turning home a Kieran Tierney cutback for the equaliser.
Solid Backline
The keeper Schwolow, who had denied from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, kept out an Engels shot which deflected off Magnússon. Halkett thwarted a Shin Yamada attempt in added time. The hosts faced little else as the minutes passed. “We remain resolute” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the ground. It's hard to ignore the noise.
- Complete analysis coming soon.
