Hearts Extend 8 Points Clear at Top After Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Sees Off Celtic
History wasn't made at Tynecastle Park, as it's far too early for such milestones. The encounter underlined is that Heart of Midlothian have a genuine credible shot of disrupting Scottish football's 40-year dominance by two. That advantage stands at eight points for Hearts over Celtic, whom they decisively beat. Catch them if you can.
Key Moments in the After the Break
A brief but pivotal phase proved decisive, following a tight first half that was contested closely. What was so notable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how stress-free the closing stages of the game was for the home side. Alexandros Kyziridis doubled the lead, cutting in from the left before blasting a strike past the stationary Kasper Schmeichel. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Dane Murray upending Braga for a foul that the captain slotted home. Rodgers appeared frustrated; challenges abound for him.
Fans start to rejoice after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against Celtic.
The Visitors' Fightback
The away side responded positively from Hearts’ rapid start. Murray, who endured a torrid afternoon, turned the ball into his own net due to confusion when trying to remove a ball into the box. Celtic edged their way back into the game, skipper McGregor, turning home a Tierney pull-back for 1-1.
Solid Backline
The shot-stopper Alexander Schwolow, who had denied from Nygren in the first half, parried an Engels shot which flicked off Magnússon. Craig Halkett blocked a Yamada attempt in stoppage time. The hosts faced little else as the clock ticked down. “We shall not be moved” has become the popular anthem at the stadium. One cannot overlook the excitement.
- Full report coming soon.
