The Tynecastle side Extend Eight Points Clear Ahead at Top After Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Kick Overcomes Celtic
History wasn't made at Tynecastle Park, since it's far too early for such achievements. The encounter underlined is that Hearts are at least in with credible shot of disrupting Scottish football's 40-year dominance by two. They now lead by eight points for the team over their rivals, whom they decisively beat. The challenge is now for others.
Key Moments in the Latter Period
Three second-half minutes made the difference, after an opening period that was contested closely. It was remarkable after they took a 3-1 lead was how untroubled the closing stages of the game was for the home side. The Greek winger doubled the lead, cutting in from the left before blasting a strike past the static the Celtic keeper. More joy followed in the stands, Dane Murray bringing down the Hearts player for a foul that Shankland converted. The Celtic manager cut such a disconsolate figure; his problems are mounting.
Fans start to rejoice after Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against the opposition.
Celtic's Response
Celtic had actually recovered well from the hosts' quick opening. The defender, who had a difficult day, turned the ball into his own net due to panic when trying to deal with a Shankland cross. Celtic edged their way back into the game, leader Callum McGregor, scoring a Kieran Tierney pass for the equaliser.
Stubborn Defence
The keeper Schwolow, who had denied from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, parried an Arne Engels shot which flicked off Tómas Magnússon. Halkett thwarted a Shin Yamada attempt in the dying moments. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the game concluded. “We shall not be moved” has become the favoured chant at the ground. It is becoming increasingly difficult the excitement.
- Complete analysis coming soon.
