Hearts Extend 8 Points Ahead in Front at the Summit After Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Defeats Celtic
We did not witness at Tynecastle Park, with it being far too early for such landmarks. What this match did emphasise is that the Edinburgh club are at least in with credible shot of disrupting Scottish football's 40-year title duopoly. Make that an eight-point lead for Hearts over their rivals, whom they comfortably swatted aside. The challenge is now for others.
Turning Point in the After the Break
A crucial three-minute spell made the difference, once the initial exchanges that was contested closely. What was so notable after they took a 3-1 lead was how stress-free the closing stages of the game was for the Tynecastle team. The Greek winger netted the second goal, moving infield before thumping a right-footed shot past the motionless the Celtic keeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, the Celtic defender fouling the Hearts player for a foul that the captain tucked away. Brendan Rodgers looked dejected; challenges abound for him.
Fans start to rejoice after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against the opposition.
The Visitors' Fightback
The away side responded positively from Hearts’ rapid start. Murray, who endured a torrid afternoon, conceded an own goal due to panic when trying to deal with a Shankland cross. The Hoops worked their way into the game, leader McGregor, finishing a Kieran Tierney pull-back for the equaliser.
Stubborn Defence
The Hearts goalkeeper Alexander Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, parried an Engels shot which deflected off Magnússon. Halkett thwarted a Shin Yamada attempt in added time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the minutes passed. “We remain resolute” has become the favoured chant at the stadium. It is becoming increasingly difficult the buzz.
- Full report coming soon.
