The Tynecastle side Move Eight Points Ahead at Top After Shankland's Penalty Sees Off The Hoops
A historic moment didn't occur at Tynecastle Park, since it's far too early for such landmarks. The encounter underlined is that Hearts possess a real credible shot of breaking Scottish football's 40-year dominance by two. That advantage stands at eight points for the maroon side over their rivals, whom they comfortably swatted aside. The challenge is now for others.
Key Moments in the After the Break
A crucial three-minute spell were key, once the initial exchanges that was fiercely fought. It was remarkable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how stress-free the closing stages of the game was for the hosts. Kyziridis scored Hearts’ second, drifting inside before firing a powerful effort past the stationary the Celtic keeper. Delight increased in the stands, Dane Murray bringing down Braga for a spot-kick that the captain converted. Brendan Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
Supporters began celebrating after Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against the opposition.
Hoops' Reaction
The away side responded positively from an early setback. Murray, who had a difficult day, conceded an own goal due to panic when trying to remove a ball into the box. They gradually fought back into the game, the captain Callum McGregor, scoring a Tierney pass for 1-1.
Solid Backline
The shot-stopper Alexander Schwolow, who had denied from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, parried an Engels shot which flicked off Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett stopped a Yamada attempt in the dying moments. The hosts faced little else as the game concluded. “We shall not be moved” has become the popular anthem at Tynecastle. It is becoming increasingly difficult the noise.
- Full report to follow.
