Hearts Extend 8 Points in Front at the Pinnacle Following Shankland's Spot-Kick Sees Off Celtic
A historic moment didn't occur at Tynecastle, since it's far too early for such landmarks. The encounter underlined is that Heart of Midlothian have a genuine strong chance of ending Scottish football's long-standing title duopoly. Make that an eight-point lead for the team over the visitors, whom they comfortably swatted aside. Try to chase them down.
Key Moments in the Second Half
A brief but pivotal phase made the difference, once the initial exchanges that was contested closely. What was so notable after they extended their advantage was how comfortable the rest of the game was for the home side. Kyziridis scored Hearts’ second, drifting inside before firing a powerful effort past the stationary the Celtic keeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Murray upending Cláudio Braga for a penalty that Lawrence Shankland converted. The Celtic manager looked dejected; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
The crowd erupted after Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against the opposition.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic had actually recovered well from the hosts' quick opening. The defender, who struggled throughout, conceded an own goal due to confusion when trying to deal with a ball into the box. They gradually fought back into the game, skipper Callum McGregor, turning home a Tierney pull-back for level terms.
Solid Backline
The keeper Alexander Schwolow, who had denied from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, blocked an Engels shot which flicked off Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett thwarted a Shin Yamada attempt in the dying moments. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the minutes passed. “We shall not be moved” has become the popular anthem at the ground. It is becoming increasingly difficult the noise.
- Full report to follow.
