The Tynecastle side Extend 8 Points Ahead Ahead at the Summit Following Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Kick Defeats Celtic
We did not witness at Tynecastle Park, since it's far too early for such landmarks. The encounter underlined is that Hearts have a genuine credible shot of ending Scottish football's four decade-long dominance by two. They now lead by eight points for the team over Celtic, whom they easily dispatched. Try to chase them down.
Turning Point in the Second Half
A crucial three-minute spell proved decisive, after an opening period that was contested closely. What was so notable after they extended their advantage was how comfortable the remainder of the game was for the hosts. Alexandros Kyziridis doubled the lead, moving infield before thumping a right-footed shot past the stationary Kasper Schmeichel. Delight increased in the stands, Murray fouling Cláudio Braga for a foul that Shankland converted. Brendan Rodgers looked dejected; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
The crowd erupted after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against the opposition.
Celtic's Response
Celtic bounced back from the hosts' quick opening. Murray, who had a difficult day, conceded an own goal due to confusion when trying to deal with a ball into the box. The Hoops worked their way into the game, the captain McGregor, turning home a Tierney cutback for the equaliser.
Stubborn Defence
The Hearts goalkeeper Alexander Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, parried an Engels shot which flicked off Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett stopped a Shin Yamada attempt in added time. They comfortably saw out the game as the minutes passed. “We shall not be moved” has become the popular anthem at the ground. It's hard to ignore the excitement.
- Full report will be available.
