Hearts Extend Eight Points Clear Ahead at Top Following Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Sees Off Celtic
We did not witness at Tynecastle, as it's far too early for such milestones. What this match did emphasise is that the Edinburgh club have a genuine strong chance of breaking Scottish football's long-standing dominance by two. That advantage stands at eight points for the team over their rivals, whom they comfortably swatted aside. The challenge is now for others.
Turning Point in the Second Half
Three second-half minutes proved decisive, once the initial exchanges that was evenly matched. It was remarkable after they took a 3-1 lead was how stress-free the closing stages of the game was for the hosts. Alexandros Kyziridis doubled the lead, moving infield before blasting a strike past the static the Celtic keeper. More joy followed in the stands, Dane Murray fouling the Hearts player for a spot-kick that Shankland converted. Rodgers looked dejected; his problems are mounting.
Fans start to rejoice after Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against Celtic.
Celtic's Response
The away side responded positively from the hosts' quick opening. Murray, who struggled throughout, conceded an own goal due to confusion when trying to clear a ball into the box. The Hoops worked their way into the game, leader Callum McGregor, turning home a Tierney cutback for 1-1.
Solid Backline
The keeper Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Nygren in the first half, kept out an Engels shot which deflected off Magnússon. 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 favoured chant at Tynecastle. It's hard to ignore the buzz.
- Full report coming soon.
