The Tynecastle side Push 8 Points Clear in Front at Top Following Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Defeats Celtic
History wasn't made at Tynecastle Park, since it's far too early for such achievements. What this match did emphasise is that the Edinburgh club have a genuine credible shot of ending Scottish football's four decade-long dominance by two. Make that an eight-point lead for the maroon side over Celtic, whom they comfortably swatted aside. Catch them if you can.
Turning Point in the After the Break
A brief but pivotal phase made the difference, once the initial exchanges that was contested closely. It was remarkable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how comfortable the closing stages of the game was for the hosts. The Greek winger netted the second goal, cutting in from the left before firing a powerful effort past the stationary the goalkeeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Murray upending the Hearts player for a spot-kick that Shankland tucked away. Brendan Rodgers appeared frustrated; challenges abound for him.
Fans start to rejoice after Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against the opposition.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic had actually recovered well from Hearts’ rapid start. Murray, who had a difficult day, scored an own goal due to haste when trying to deal with a ball into the box. Celtic edged their way back into the game, the captain Callum McGregor, finishing a Tierney pull-back for the equaliser.
Stubborn Defence
The shot-stopper Alexander Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Nygren in the first half, blocked an Engels shot which touched Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett stopped a Yamada attempt in stoppage time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the clock ticked down. “We shall not be moved” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at Tynecastle. It's hard to ignore the buzz.
- Detailed coverage coming soon.
