The Tynecastle side Extend Eight Points in Front at the Summit Following Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Kick Overcomes The Hoops
History wasn't made at their home ground, as it's far too early for such landmarks. What this match did emphasise is that the Edinburgh club are at least in with credible shot of ending Scottish football's four decade-long title duopoly. Make that an eight-point lead for Hearts over the visitors, whom they easily dispatched. The challenge is now for others.
Turning Point in the After the Break
A brief but pivotal phase were key, following a tight first half that was contested closely. The striking aspect after they extended their advantage was how untroubled the closing stages of the game was for the Tynecastle team. Kyziridis scored Hearts’ second, drifting inside before thumping a right-footed shot past the static the goalkeeper. More joy followed in the stands, Dane Murray fouling the Hearts player for a foul that Lawrence Shankland slotted home. The Celtic manager cut such a disconsolate figure; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
Fans start to rejoice after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against the opposition.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic bounced back from Hearts’ rapid start. Dane Murray, who struggled throughout, turned the ball into his own net due to haste when trying to deal with a Shankland cross. The Hoops worked their way into the game, skipper Callum McGregor, finishing a Tierney cutback for the equaliser.
Stubborn Defence
The keeper Alexander Schwolow, who had denied from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, kept out an Arne Engels shot which touched Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett blocked a Shin Yamada attempt in the dying moments. They comfortably saw out the game as the game concluded. “We shall not be moved” has become the favoured chant at Tynecastle. One cannot overlook the excitement.
- Complete analysis coming soon.
