The Tynecastle side Push Eight Points Ahead Ahead at the Summit After Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Kick Defeats Celtic
A historic moment didn't occur at their home ground, since it's far too early for such landmarks. This game highlighted is that Heart of Midlothian possess a real credible shot of disrupting Scottish football's 40-year stranglehold. Make that an eight-point lead for the maroon side over Celtic, whom they comfortably swatted aside. Catch them if you can.
Turning Point in the After the Break
A crucial three-minute spell were key, following a tight first half that was fiercely fought. It was remarkable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how comfortable the closing stages of the game was for the hosts. Kyziridis doubled the lead, cutting in from the left before thumping a right-footed shot past the stationary the Celtic keeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Murray bringing down Cláudio Braga for a foul that Shankland slotted home. The Celtic manager cut such a disconsolate figure; his problems are mounting.
Supporters began celebrating after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against the opposition.
Hoops' Reaction
The away side responded positively from an early setback. The defender, who had a difficult day, turned the ball into his own net due to confusion when trying to remove a ball into the box. They gradually fought back into the game, skipper McGregor, scoring a Tierney cutback for 1-1.
Stubborn Defence
The Hearts goalkeeper Alexander Schwolow, who had denied from Nygren in the first half, blocked an Engels shot which flicked off Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett stopped a Shin Yamada attempt in added time. The hosts faced little else as the game concluded. “We stand firm” has become the popular anthem at the stadium. One cannot overlook the buzz.
- Complete analysis to follow.
