The Jambos Push 8 Points Ahead at Top Following Shankland's Spot-Kick Defeats Celtic
A historic moment didn't occur at their home ground, as it's far too early for such landmarks. This game highlighted is that Heart of Midlothian are at least in with credible shot of disrupting Scottish football's long-standing stranglehold. They now lead by eight points for the maroon side over Celtic, whom they easily dispatched. Try to chase them down.
Turning Point in the After the Break
A brief but pivotal phase were key, following a tight first half that was fiercely fought. What was so notable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how untroubled the closing stages of the game was for the Tynecastle team. Alexandros Kyziridis netted the second goal, drifting inside before thumping a right-footed shot past the static Kasper Schmeichel. Delight increased in the stands, Murray upending Braga for a penalty that Lawrence Shankland slotted home. Brendan Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
Fans start to rejoice after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against the opposition.
The Visitors' Fightback
Celtic bounced back from the hosts' quick opening. Dane Murray, who struggled throughout, scored an own goal due to confusion when trying to deal with a ball into the box. They gradually fought back into the game, skipper Callum McGregor, finishing a Kieran Tierney pass for level terms.
Stubborn Defence
The keeper Alexander Schwolow, who had denied from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, parried an Engels shot which touched Magnússon. Craig Halkett stopped a Shin Yamada attempt in stoppage time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the game concluded. “We stand firm” has become the popular anthem at the stadium. It's hard to ignore the excitement.
- Complete analysis coming soon.
