Hearts Push Eight Points in Front at the Summit After Shankland's Penalty Defeats Celtic
We did not witness at Tynecastle Park, with it being far too early for such achievements. What this match did emphasise is that Hearts are at least in with strong chance of ending Scottish football's 40-year dominance by two. They now lead by eight points for Hearts over Celtic, whom they comfortably swatted aside. Try to chase them down.
Decisive Period in the Latter Period
A brief but pivotal phase were key, after an opening period that was fiercely fought. What was so notable after they extended their advantage was how untroubled the closing stages of the game was for the Tynecastle team. Alexandros Kyziridis doubled the lead, moving infield before firing a powerful effort past the motionless the goalkeeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Murray upending the Hearts player for a spot-kick that Shankland slotted home. Brendan Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; challenges abound for him.
Supporters began celebrating after Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against the opposition.
Celtic's Response
Celtic bounced back from an early setback. Dane Murray, who had a difficult day, scored an own goal due to panic when trying to deal with a ball into the box. The Hoops worked their way into the game, skipper Callum McGregor, turning home a Kieran Tierney pass for level terms.
Solid Backline
The keeper Schwolow, who had denied from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, parried an Engels shot which flicked off Tómas Magnússon. Halkett stopped a Shin Yamada attempt in stoppage time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the game concluded. “We stand firm” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at Tynecastle. One cannot overlook the buzz.
- Full report coming soon.
