Hearts Extend 8 Points Ahead Clear at Top Following Shankland's Penalty Defeats Celtic
A historic moment didn't occur at their home ground, as it's far too early for such landmarks. This game highlighted is that Heart of Midlothian are at least in with serious opportunity of breaking Scottish football's 40-year title duopoly. That advantage stands at eight points for the team over their rivals, whom they decisively beat. Catch them if you can.
Turning Point in the After the Break
Three second-half minutes made the difference, after an opening period that was evenly matched. The striking aspect after they extended their advantage was how untroubled the remainder 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 motionless the goalkeeper. More joy followed in the stands, Dane Murray fouling the Hearts player for a foul that the captain tucked away. Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; his problems are mounting.
The crowd erupted after Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against the opposition.
The Visitors' Fightback
Celtic had actually recovered well from Hearts’ rapid start. The defender, who struggled throughout, scored an own goal due to haste when trying to clear a ball into the box. The Hoops worked their way into the game, leader Callum McGregor, scoring a Kieran Tierney pull-back for level terms.
Solid Backline
The shot-stopper Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Nygren in the first half, parried an Arne Engels shot which flicked off Tómas Magnússon. Halkett blocked a Yamada attempt in the dying moments. They comfortably saw out the game as the game concluded. “We stand firm” has become the favoured chant at Tynecastle. It is becoming increasingly difficult the excitement.
- Detailed coverage coming soon.
