Hearts Push 8 Points in Front at the Summit Following Shankland's Spot-Kick Overcomes The Hoops
A historic moment didn't occur at their home ground, since it's far too early for such landmarks. What this match did emphasise is that Heart of Midlothian have a genuine serious opportunity of disrupting Scottish football's long-standing stranglehold. That advantage stands at eight points for the team over their rivals, whom they comfortably swatted aside. Try to chase them down.
Decisive Period in the Second Half
A crucial three-minute spell were key, after an opening period that was fiercely fought. What was so notable after they took a 3-1 lead was how untroubled the closing stages of the game was for the hosts. The Greek winger scored Hearts’ second, moving infield before firing a powerful effort past the static the goalkeeper. More joy followed in the stands, Murray upending the Hearts player for a penalty that Lawrence Shankland tucked away. Brendan Rodgers looked dejected; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
Supporters began celebrating after Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against the opposition.
The Visitors' Fightback
Celtic had actually recovered well from an early setback. Dane 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 McGregor, finishing a Kieran Tierney pass for the equaliser.
Stubborn Defence
The Hearts goalkeeper Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Nygren in the first half, kept out an Arne Engels shot which touched Tómas Magnússon. Halkett stopped a Yamada attempt in added time. The hosts faced little else as the clock ticked down. “We shall not be moved” has become the popular anthem at Tynecastle. It's hard to ignore the noise.
- Complete analysis coming soon.
