Hearts Extend 8 Points Ahead Ahead at Top After Shankland's Penalty Kick Sees Off Celtic
We did not witness at Tynecastle, with it being far too early for such milestones. This game highlighted is that Hearts possess a real strong chance of ending Scottish football's long-standing dominance by two. They now lead by eight points for the maroon side over the visitors, whom they easily dispatched. Catch them if you can.
Turning Point in the After the Break
A crucial three-minute spell made the difference, following a tight first half that was evenly matched. What was so notable after they extended their advantage was how untroubled the remainder of the game was for the home side. Kyziridis netted the second goal, cutting in from the left before thumping a right-footed shot past the stationary the Celtic keeper. More joy followed in the stands, the Celtic defender upending the Hearts player for a penalty that the captain converted. The Celtic manager 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.
Celtic's Response
The away side responded positively from an early setback. The defender, who struggled throughout, conceded an own goal due to panic when trying to deal with a ball into the box. The Hoops worked their way into the game, leader McGregor, scoring a Kieran Tierney cutback for 1-1.
Solid Backline
The shot-stopper Schwolow, who had denied from Nygren in the first half, kept out an Engels shot which flicked off Magnússon. Halkett stopped a Yamada attempt in the dying moments. They comfortably saw out the game as the minutes passed. “We shall not be moved” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the ground. It's hard to ignore the excitement.
- Full report coming soon.