The Jambos Push 8 Points in Front at Top After Lawrence Shankland's Spot-Kick Overcomes The Hoops
History wasn't made at Tynecastle Park, as it's far too early for such landmarks. What this match did emphasise is that Heart of Midlothian possess a real credible shot of disrupting Scottish football's 40-year dominance by two. That advantage stands at eight points for the team over their rivals, whom they comfortably swatted aside. The challenge is now for others.
Key Moments in the Latter Period
A crucial three-minute spell were key, following a tight first half that was evenly matched. The striking aspect after they extended their advantage was how stress-free the closing stages of the game was for the hosts. Alexandros Kyziridis doubled the lead, drifting inside before blasting a strike past the static Kasper Schmeichel. Delight increased in the stands, Dane Murray upending Braga for a spot-kick that the captain tucked away. The Celtic manager cut such a disconsolate figure; challenges abound for him.
The crowd erupted after Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against Celtic.
The Visitors' Fightback
Celtic bounced back from an early setback. Dane Murray, who struggled throughout, scored an own goal due to panic when trying to remove a delivery from Shankland. Celtic edged their way back into the game, skipper Callum McGregor, turning home a Kieran Tierney cutback for level terms.
Solid Backline
The shot-stopper Alexander Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Nygren in the first half, kept out an Engels shot which deflected off Magnússon. Craig Halkett stopped a Shin Yamada attempt in added time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the game concluded. “We remain resolute” has become the popular anthem at the stadium. One cannot overlook the noise.
- Complete analysis to follow.
