The Jambos Extend Eight Points Ahead Clear at the Pinnacle Following Shankland's Penalty Sees Off The Hoops
We did not witness at Tynecastle, as it's far too early for such milestones. What this match did emphasise is that Heart of Midlothian have a genuine strong chance of breaking Scottish football's 40-year stranglehold. That advantage stands at eight points for Hearts over Celtic, whom they decisively beat. The challenge is now for others.
Turning Point in the After the Break
A crucial three-minute spell proved decisive, after an opening period that was evenly matched. What was so notable after they extended their advantage was how comfortable the closing stages of the game was for the Tynecastle team. Kyziridis doubled the lead, moving infield before firing a powerful effort past the stationary Kasper Schmeichel. More joy followed in the stands, the Celtic defender fouling Cláudio Braga for a spot-kick that Lawrence Shankland tucked away. The Celtic manager cut such a disconsolate figure; challenges abound for him.
The crowd erupted after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against the opposition.
Celtic's Response
The away side responded positively from the hosts' quick opening. Dane Murray, who had a difficult day, scored an own goal due to panic when trying to deal with a ball into the box. The Hoops worked their way into the game, skipper McGregor, scoring a Tierney cutback for 1-1.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The shot-stopper Schwolow, who had denied from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, kept out an Engels shot which deflected off Tómas Magnússon. Halkett blocked a Yamada attempt in added time. They comfortably saw out the game as the minutes passed. “We stand firm” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at Tynecastle. One cannot overlook the excitement.
- Detailed coverage coming soon.
