The Tynecastle side Move Eight Points Ahead in Front at Top After Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Kick Defeats The Hoops
We did not witness at Tynecastle, with it being far too early for such achievements. What this match did emphasise is that the Edinburgh club are at least in with serious opportunity of breaking Scottish football's 40-year title duopoly. They now lead by eight points for Hearts over Celtic, whom they comfortably swatted aside. Try to chase them down.
Key Moments 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 stress-free the rest of the game was for the Tynecastle team. The Greek winger scored Hearts’ second, cutting in from the left before thumping a right-footed shot past the stationary the Celtic keeper. More joy followed in the stands, Dane Murray fouling Braga for a penalty that Lawrence Shankland tucked away. Rodgers appeared frustrated; challenges abound for him.
Supporters began celebrating after Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against the opposition.
Celtic's Response
Celtic had actually recovered well from the hosts' quick opening. Murray, who struggled throughout, conceded an own goal due to haste when trying to remove a ball into the box. Celtic edged their way back into the game, the captain Callum McGregor, finishing a Tierney pass for the equaliser.
Stubborn Defence
The keeper Alexander Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, kept out an Arne Engels shot which flicked off Tómas Magnússon. Halkett thwarted a Shin Yamada attempt in the dying moments. They comfortably saw out the game as the minutes passed. “We remain resolute” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at Tynecastle. One cannot overlook the noise.
- Complete analysis coming soon.
