Hearts Push Eight Points Ahead in Front at the Pinnacle After Lawrence Shankland's Spot-Kick Sees Off Celtic
A historic moment didn't occur at their home ground, as it's far too early for such achievements. The encounter underlined is that Heart of Midlothian are at least in with strong chance of breaking Scottish football's 40-year title duopoly. That advantage stands at eight points for the maroon side over the visitors, whom they decisively beat. Catch them if you can.
Key Moments in the Latter Period
A crucial three-minute spell were key, following a tight first half that was contested closely. What was so notable after they took a 3-1 lead was how untroubled the closing stages of the game was for the Tynecastle team. The Greek winger doubled the lead, drifting inside before blasting a strike past the motionless Kasper Schmeichel. Delight increased in the stands, the Celtic defender upending Cláudio Braga for a penalty that Lawrence Shankland tucked away. Brendan Rodgers appeared frustrated; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
Fans start to rejoice after Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against Celtic.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic had actually recovered well from the hosts' quick opening. The defender, who struggled throughout, turned the ball into his own net due to confusion when trying to remove a delivery from Shankland. Celtic edged their way back into the game, skipper Callum McGregor, turning home a Tierney pass for level terms.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The shot-stopper Alexander Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, parried an Engels shot which deflected off Magnússon. Halkett blocked a Shin Yamada attempt in the dying moments. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the minutes passed. “We shall not be moved” has become the popular anthem at Tynecastle. It is becoming increasingly difficult the buzz.
- Detailed coverage to follow.
