Hearts Move 8 Points Ahead in Front at the Summit After Lawrence Shankland's Spot-Kick Overcomes The Hoops
A historic moment didn't occur at their home ground, as it's far too early for such landmarks. The encounter underlined is that the Edinburgh club have a genuine credible shot of ending Scottish football's 40-year stranglehold. Make that an eight-point lead for the team over Celtic, whom they decisively beat. Try to chase them down.
Decisive Period in the After the Break
A crucial three-minute spell proved decisive, after an opening period that was contested closely. The striking aspect after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how stress-free the closing stages of the game was for the home side. Alexandros Kyziridis doubled the lead, cutting in from the left before thumping a right-footed shot past the motionless the goalkeeper. Delight increased in the stands, Dane Murray fouling Braga for a foul that the captain converted. Rodgers looked dejected; his problems are mounting.
Supporters began celebrating after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against Celtic.
Celtic's Response
The away side responded positively from Hearts’ rapid start. Murray, who endured a torrid afternoon, scored an own goal due to confusion when trying to remove a delivery from Shankland. They gradually fought back into the game, skipper Callum McGregor, turning home a Kieran Tierney pass for level terms.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The keeper Schwolow, who had denied from Nygren in the first half, kept out an Engels shot which touched Magnússon. Craig Halkett stopped a Shin Yamada attempt in added time. They comfortably saw out the game as the minutes passed. “We stand firm” has become the favoured chant at the ground. It is becoming increasingly difficult the buzz.
- Full report coming soon.
