The Tynecastle side Move 8 Points Clear Clear at the Pinnacle After Lawrence Shankland's Spot-Kick Defeats The Glasgow Giants
A historic moment didn't occur at Tynecastle Park, as it's far too early for such achievements. The encounter underlined is that Hearts are at least in with strong chance of breaking Scottish football's long-standing stranglehold. That advantage stands at eight points for the maroon side over Celtic, whom they comfortably swatted aside. The challenge is now for others.
Decisive Period in the After the Break
A crucial three-minute spell made the difference, following a tight first half that was fiercely fought. It was remarkable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how stress-free the closing stages of the game was for the hosts. Alexandros Kyziridis scored Hearts’ second, moving infield before thumping a right-footed shot past the static the Celtic keeper. More joy followed in the stands, Murray bringing down the Hearts player for a foul that the captain tucked away. Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; challenges abound for him.
The crowd erupted after Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against the opposition.
Celtic's Response
The away side responded positively from an early setback. Dane Murray, who had a difficult day, scored an own goal due to haste when trying to deal with a delivery from Shankland. They gradually fought back into the game, leader Callum McGregor, turning home a Kieran Tierney pass for the equaliser.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The shot-stopper Alexander Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Nygren in the first half, parried an Engels shot which touched Tómas Magnússon. Halkett blocked a Yamada attempt in added time. The hosts faced little else as the game concluded. “We stand firm” has become the favoured chant at the stadium. It is becoming increasingly difficult the buzz.
- Complete analysis to follow.
