Hearts Move Eight Points Ahead in Front at the Pinnacle Following Shankland's Penalty Sees Off Celtic
We did not witness at Tynecastle, as it's far too early for such milestones. This game highlighted is that Hearts have a genuine serious opportunity of disrupting Scottish football's long-standing stranglehold. Make that an eight-point lead for the team over Celtic, whom they decisively beat. The challenge is now for others.
Key Moments in the After the Break
A brief but pivotal phase proved decisive, following a tight first half that was evenly matched. It was remarkable after they took a 3-1 lead was how comfortable the rest of the game was for the home side. Kyziridis scored Hearts’ second, moving infield before firing a powerful effort past the stationary the goalkeeper. Delight increased in the stands, the Celtic defender bringing down the Hearts player for a spot-kick that Shankland converted. Brendan Rodgers looked dejected; his problems are mounting.
Supporters began celebrating after Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against the opposition.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic bounced back from Hearts’ rapid start. Dane Murray, who struggled throughout, conceded an own goal due to panic when trying to remove a Shankland cross. The Hoops worked their way into the game, skipper Callum McGregor, finishing a Kieran Tierney pass for 1-1.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The keeper Alexander Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, kept out an Arne Engels shot which touched Magnússon. Craig Halkett stopped a Yamada attempt in added time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the minutes passed. “We stand firm” has become the popular anthem at the ground. One cannot overlook the buzz.
- Detailed coverage coming soon.
