Hearts Move Eight Points Clear Clear at the Pinnacle Following Lawrence Shankland's Spot-Kick Defeats Celtic
History wasn't made at Tynecastle Park, with it being far too early for such landmarks. This game highlighted is that Heart of Midlothian possess a real strong chance of breaking Scottish football's 40-year dominance by two. They now lead by eight points for the team over the visitors, whom they comfortably swatted aside. The challenge is now for others.
Turning Point in the Second Half
A crucial three-minute spell proved decisive, once the initial exchanges that was contested closely. It was remarkable after they took a 3-1 lead was how comfortable the rest of the game was for the Tynecastle team. Alexandros Kyziridis netted the second goal, cutting in from the left before thumping a right-footed shot past the motionless the goalkeeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Murray fouling Cláudio Braga for a spot-kick that the captain tucked away. Rodgers appeared frustrated; his problems are mounting.
Fans start to rejoice after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against Celtic.
Hoops' Reaction
The away side responded positively from an early setback. Dane Murray, who had a difficult day, scored an own goal due to panic when trying to remove a ball into the box. Celtic edged their way back into the game, leader McGregor, finishing a Tierney pull-back for 1-1.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The keeper Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Nygren in the first half, blocked an Engels shot which flicked off Magnússon. Craig Halkett thwarted a Shin Yamada attempt in stoppage time. They comfortably saw out the game as the clock ticked down. “We shall not be moved” has become the favoured chant at Tynecastle. One cannot overlook the noise.
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