The Jambos Push 8 Points Ahead in Front at the Summit After Shankland's Spot-Kick Sees Off The Hoops
History wasn't made at their home ground, since it's far too early for such landmarks. This game highlighted is that Hearts are at least in with strong chance of disrupting Scottish football's long-standing dominance by two. They now lead by eight points for the maroon side over the visitors, whom they decisively beat. The challenge is now for others.
Key Moments in the Second Half
Three second-half minutes proved decisive, after an opening period that was fiercely fought. It was remarkable after they extended their advantage was how stress-free the remainder of the game was for the Tynecastle team. Alexandros Kyziridis scored Hearts’ second, moving infield before blasting a strike past the static the Celtic keeper. More joy followed in the stands, the Celtic defender upending the Hearts player for a spot-kick that Lawrence Shankland tucked away. Brendan Rodgers appeared frustrated; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
Supporters began celebrating after Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against the opposition.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic bounced back from an early setback. Dane Murray, who struggled throughout, conceded an own goal due to haste when trying to remove a ball into the box. The Hoops worked their way into the game, the captain Callum McGregor, scoring a Tierney pass for level terms.
Solid Backline
The keeper Alexander Schwolow, who had denied from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, kept out an Arne Engels shot which touched Magnússon. Halkett stopped a Yamada attempt in stoppage time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the clock ticked down. “We stand firm” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at Tynecastle. It is becoming increasingly difficult the excitement.
- Full report to follow.
