Hearts Push Eight Points Clear in Front at the Pinnacle Following Lawrence Shankland's Spot-Kick Defeats Celtic
We did not witness at Tynecastle Park, with it being far too early for such achievements. This game highlighted is that the Edinburgh club are at least in with serious opportunity of breaking Scottish football's long-standing dominance by two. Make that an eight-point lead for Hearts over their rivals, whom they easily dispatched. The challenge is now for others.
Key Moments in the After the Break
A brief but pivotal phase made the difference, after an opening period that was contested closely. What was so notable after they extended their advantage was how untroubled the remainder of the game was for the Tynecastle team. The Greek winger doubled the lead, moving infield before firing a powerful effort past the static the goalkeeper. More joy followed in the stands, Murray fouling Braga for a penalty that the captain slotted home. Brendan Rodgers looked dejected; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
Fans start to rejoice after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against Celtic.
The Visitors' Fightback
Celtic had actually recovered well from the hosts' quick opening. Murray, who struggled throughout, conceded an own goal due to haste when trying to deal with a Shankland cross. Celtic edged their way back into the game, skipper Callum McGregor, scoring a Kieran Tierney pass for 1-1.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The shot-stopper Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Nygren in the first half, kept out an Engels shot which deflected off Magnússon. Halkett stopped a Shin Yamada attempt in stoppage time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the clock ticked down. “We remain resolute” has become the popular anthem at the stadium. It is becoming increasingly difficult the excitement.
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