Hearts Push 8 Points Clear at the Pinnacle After Shankland's Penalty Kick Defeats The Hoops
We did not witness at Tynecastle, with it being far too early for such achievements. What this match did emphasise is that Heart of Midlothian possess a real strong chance of disrupting Scottish football's four decade-long title duopoly. Make that an eight-point lead for the maroon side over the visitors, whom they easily dispatched. The challenge is now for others.
Key Moments in the Latter Period
A brief but pivotal phase were key, following a tight first half that was contested closely. What was so notable after they extended their advantage was how comfortable the closing stages of the game was for the home side. Alexandros Kyziridis netted the second goal, drifting inside before thumping a right-footed shot past the motionless Kasper Schmeichel. Delight increased in the stands, Murray bringing down the Hearts player for a foul that Shankland tucked away. Brendan Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
Supporters began celebrating after Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against Celtic.
The Visitors' Fightback
The away side responded positively from Hearts’ rapid start. Murray, who endured a torrid afternoon, turned the ball into his own net due to confusion when trying to deal with a delivery from Shankland. They gradually fought back into the game, skipper McGregor, scoring a Tierney pull-back for the equaliser.
Stubborn Defence
The keeper Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Nygren in the first half, kept out an Arne Engels shot which flicked off Tómas Magnússon. Halkett thwarted a Shin Yamada attempt in the dying moments. They comfortably saw out the game as the game concluded. “We remain resolute” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the ground. One cannot overlook the buzz.
- Full report to follow.
