The Jambos Push Eight Points Clear Clear at the Summit After Lawrence Shankland's Spot-Kick Defeats The Hoops
History wasn't made at Tynecastle Park, with it being far too early for such milestones. This game highlighted is that Heart of Midlothian have a genuine credible shot of ending Scottish football's 40-year title duopoly. That advantage stands at eight points for the maroon side over their rivals, whom they decisively beat. Catch them if you can.
Decisive Period in the Latter Period
A brief but pivotal phase were key, following a tight first half that was fiercely fought. What was so notable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how untroubled the remainder of the game was for the home side. Alexandros Kyziridis scored Hearts’ second, moving infield before blasting a strike past the static the Celtic keeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Dane Murray fouling Braga for a penalty that Shankland converted. The Celtic manager looked dejected; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
The crowd erupted after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against Celtic.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic had actually recovered well from Hearts’ rapid start. Dane Murray, who endured a torrid afternoon, scored an own goal due to haste when trying to deal with a ball into the box. The Hoops worked their way into the game, the captain McGregor, scoring a Tierney pass for the equaliser.
Stubborn Defence
The shot-stopper Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, kept out an Arne Engels shot which touched Magnússon. Halkett blocked a Yamada attempt in added time. They comfortably saw out the game as the minutes passed. “We remain resolute” has become the popular anthem at Tynecastle. One cannot overlook the excitement.
- Complete analysis to follow.