Hearts Move 8 Points Clear at Top Following Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Defeats The Hoops
A historic moment didn't occur at Tynecastle, as it's far too early for such milestones. What this match did emphasise is that Hearts possess a real credible shot of breaking Scottish football's long-standing title duopoly. That advantage stands at eight points for the maroon side over the visitors, whom they easily dispatched. Try to chase them down.
Decisive Period in the Latter Period
Three second-half minutes were key, following a tight first half that was evenly matched. The striking aspect after they took a 3-1 lead was how comfortable the closing stages of the game was for the Tynecastle team. Alexandros Kyziridis doubled the lead, cutting in from the left before thumping a right-footed shot past the static the goalkeeper. More joy followed in the stands, Murray bringing down Cláudio Braga for a foul that Lawrence Shankland tucked away. Rodgers appeared frustrated; challenges abound for him.
Supporters began celebrating after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against Celtic.
Hoops' Reaction
The away side responded positively from the hosts' quick opening. Murray, who endured a torrid afternoon, turned the ball into his own net due to haste when trying to remove a Shankland cross. The Hoops worked their way into the game, the captain Callum McGregor, finishing a Kieran Tierney cutback for 1-1.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The shot-stopper Alexander Schwolow, who had denied from Nygren in the first half, kept out an Arne Engels shot which touched Magnússon. Halkett stopped a Yamada attempt in stoppage time. The hosts faced little else as the minutes passed. “We shall not be moved” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the stadium. It's hard to ignore the excitement.
- Complete analysis to follow.