The Tynecastle side Extend 8 Points Ahead in Front at Top Following Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Kick Defeats The Hoops
We did not witness at Tynecastle Park, with it being far too early for such achievements. What this match did emphasise is that the Edinburgh club have a genuine credible shot of breaking Scottish football's four decade-long stranglehold. That advantage stands at eight points for the team over their rivals, whom they decisively beat. The challenge is now for others.
Decisive Period in the Second Half
A crucial three-minute spell proved decisive, once the initial exchanges that was fiercely fought. What was so notable after they extended their advantage was how stress-free the rest of the game was for the hosts. Alexandros Kyziridis doubled the lead, cutting in from the left before blasting a strike past the static the Celtic keeper. More joy followed in the stands, the Celtic defender fouling the Hearts player for a penalty that Shankland slotted home. Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; his problems are mounting.
The crowd erupted after Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against Celtic.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic bounced back from the hosts' quick opening. Murray, who endured a torrid afternoon, turned the ball into his own net due to panic when trying to clear a delivery from Shankland. The Hoops worked their way into the game, leader Callum McGregor, scoring a Kieran Tierney cutback for level terms.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The shot-stopper Alexander Schwolow, who had denied from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, kept out an Arne Engels shot which touched Magnússon. Craig Halkett blocked a Shin Yamada attempt in stoppage time. The hosts faced little else as the game concluded. “We remain resolute” has become the popular anthem at the stadium. It's hard to ignore the excitement.
- Detailed coverage coming soon.
