Hearts Push 8 Points Ahead Ahead at the Summit Following Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Defeats The Hoops
We did not witness at Tynecastle Park, with it being far too early for such landmarks. This game highlighted is that Hearts are at least in with serious opportunity of ending Scottish football's long-standing title duopoly. They now lead by eight points for the team over their rivals, whom they easily dispatched. The challenge is now for others.
Turning Point in the Second Half
A crucial three-minute spell were key, after an opening period that was contested closely. The striking aspect after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how comfortable the closing stages of the game was for the home side. The Greek winger doubled the lead, cutting in from the left before firing a powerful effort past the motionless Kasper Schmeichel. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Murray bringing down Cláudio Braga for a foul that the captain slotted home. The Celtic manager appeared frustrated; challenges abound for him.
Fans start to rejoice after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against Celtic.
Celtic's Response
The away side responded positively from Hearts’ rapid start. Murray, who struggled throughout, scored an own goal due to haste when trying to clear a ball into the box. They gradually fought back into the game, leader Callum McGregor, turning home a Tierney pull-back for level terms.
Solid Backline
The Hearts goalkeeper Alexander Schwolow, who had denied from Nygren in the first half, parried an Arne Engels shot which touched Magnússon. Halkett stopped a Yamada attempt in the dying moments. The hosts faced little else as the minutes passed. “We remain resolute” has become the favoured chant at the ground. It is becoming increasingly difficult the excitement.
- Full report to follow.
