The Jambos Move Eight Points Clear in Front at the Summit Following Lawrence Shankland's Spot-Kick Sees Off Celtic
A historic moment didn't occur at their home ground, since it's far too early for such landmarks. What this match did emphasise is that Heart of Midlothian are at least in with serious opportunity of ending Scottish football's long-standing dominance by two. They now lead by eight points for the team over their rivals, whom they easily dispatched. Catch them if you can.
Turning Point in the After the Break
A brief but pivotal phase were key, after an opening period that was evenly matched. The striking aspect after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how comfortable the remainder of the game was for the Tynecastle team. Kyziridis doubled the lead, moving infield before firing a powerful effort past the stationary the goalkeeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, the Celtic defender fouling Cláudio Braga for a spot-kick that Lawrence Shankland slotted home. The Celtic manager appeared frustrated; his problems are mounting.
Fans start to rejoice after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against the opposition.
Celtic's Response
Celtic bounced back from the hosts' quick opening. Murray, who struggled throughout, turned the ball into his own net due to panic when trying to remove a Shankland cross. The Hoops worked their way into the game, leader McGregor, finishing a Tierney pass for level terms.
Solid Backline
The keeper Alexander Schwolow, who had denied from Nygren in the first half, blocked an Arne Engels shot which flicked off Magnússon. Craig Halkett blocked a Yamada attempt in the dying moments. They comfortably saw out the game as the minutes passed. “We stand firm” has become the popular anthem at the stadium. It's hard to ignore the excitement.
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