The Jambos Move Eight Points in Front at Top After Shankland's Penalty Overcomes Celtic
A historic moment didn't occur at Tynecastle Park, as it's far too early for such milestones. What this match did emphasise is that Hearts have a genuine strong chance of disrupting Scottish football's four decade-long title duopoly. That advantage stands at eight points for Hearts over Celtic, whom they easily dispatched. Catch them if you can.
Decisive Period in the Second Half
A brief but pivotal phase made the difference, once the initial exchanges that was evenly matched. What was so notable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how comfortable the closing stages of the game was for the home side. Kyziridis doubled the lead, cutting in from the left before thumping a right-footed shot past the static Kasper Schmeichel. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Dane Murray upending the Hearts player for a penalty that Lawrence Shankland converted. Brendan Rodgers looked dejected; challenges abound for him.
Supporters began celebrating after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against the opposition.
The Visitors' Fightback
Celtic bounced back from the hosts' quick opening. Dane Murray, who had a difficult day, conceded an own goal due to haste when trying to remove a Shankland cross. Celtic edged their way back into the game, leader McGregor, turning home a Kieran Tierney pass for 1-1.
Solid Backline
The Hearts goalkeeper Alexander Schwolow, who had denied from Nygren in the first half, parried an Engels shot which touched Magnússon. Craig Halkett thwarted a Shin Yamada attempt in the dying moments. The hosts faced little else as the minutes passed. “We shall not be moved” has become the popular anthem at Tynecastle. One cannot overlook the noise.
- Full report to follow.
