The Tynecastle side Move Eight Points in Front at Top Following Lawrence Shankland's Spot-Kick Sees Off Celtic
History wasn't made at Tynecastle, with it being far too early for such milestones. What this match did emphasise is that Heart of Midlothian are at least in with strong chance of disrupting Scottish football's long-standing stranglehold. They now lead by eight points for Hearts over their rivals, whom they easily dispatched. Try to chase them down.
Turning Point in the After the Break
A crucial three-minute spell were key, following a tight first half that was evenly matched. What was so notable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how comfortable the remainder of the game was for the hosts. The Greek winger scored Hearts’ second, moving infield before blasting a strike past the motionless the goalkeeper. Delight increased in the stands, Murray bringing down the Hearts player for a spot-kick that Lawrence Shankland converted. Brendan Rodgers appeared frustrated; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
Supporters began celebrating after Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against Celtic.
The Visitors' Fightback
Celtic bounced back from Hearts’ rapid start. The defender, who had a difficult day, conceded an own goal due to panic when trying to clear a delivery from Shankland. Celtic edged their way back into the game, skipper McGregor, turning home a Tierney cutback for the equaliser.
Solid Backline
The shot-stopper Alexander Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Nygren in the first half, kept out an Arne Engels shot which touched Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett blocked a Shin Yamada attempt in added time. The hosts faced little else as the game concluded. “We stand firm” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the stadium. It is becoming increasingly difficult the excitement.
- Complete analysis will be available.
