The Jambos Push Eight Points Clear in Front at the Pinnacle Following Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Kick Defeats The Hoops
We did not witness at Tynecastle, with it being far too early for such milestones. This game highlighted is that the Edinburgh club possess a real serious opportunity of disrupting Scottish football's four decade-long title duopoly. Make that an eight-point lead for the maroon side over Celtic, whom they easily dispatched. The challenge is now for others.
Key Moments in the Second Half
A crucial three-minute spell made the difference, following a tight first half that was evenly matched. What was so notable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how comfortable the remainder of the game was for the Tynecastle team. Alexandros Kyziridis netted the second goal, moving infield before thumping a right-footed shot past the static the goalkeeper. Delight increased in the stands, Dane Murray fouling Braga for a foul that Lawrence Shankland tucked away. Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
Fans start to rejoice after Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against the opposition.
Hoops' Reaction
The away side responded positively from an early setback. The defender, who had a difficult day, scored an own goal due to confusion when trying to deal with a delivery from Shankland. Celtic edged their way back into the game, the captain Callum McGregor, finishing a Kieran Tierney pull-back for 1-1.
Stubborn Defence
The keeper Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Nygren in the first half, parried an Arne Engels shot which flicked off Magnússon. Craig Halkett stopped a Yamada attempt in stoppage time. The hosts faced little else as the clock ticked down. “We remain resolute” has become the popular anthem at Tynecastle. One cannot overlook the excitement.
- Full report will be available.
