Hearts Move Eight Points Ahead Clear at Top After Shankland's Spot-Kick Sees Off The Hoops
A historic moment didn't occur at Tynecastle, as it's far too early for such achievements. The encounter underlined is that the Edinburgh club are at least in with credible shot of ending Scottish football's four decade-long stranglehold. Make that an eight-point lead for the maroon side over the visitors, whom they comfortably swatted aside. Try to chase them down.
Turning Point in the Latter Period
A brief but pivotal phase were key, after an opening period that was fiercely fought. The striking aspect after they extended their advantage was how stress-free the remainder of the game was for the hosts. Alexandros Kyziridis netted the second goal, cutting in from the left before thumping a right-footed shot past the motionless the Celtic keeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Dane Murray fouling Braga for a spot-kick 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.
Hoops' Reaction
The away side responded positively from Hearts’ rapid start. The defender, who endured a torrid afternoon, scored an own goal due to confusion when trying to clear a delivery from Shankland. The Hoops worked their way into the game, the captain Callum McGregor, turning home a Tierney pass for 1-1.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The Hearts goalkeeper Alexander Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Nygren in the first half, kept out an Engels shot which deflected off Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett blocked a Yamada attempt in stoppage time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the minutes passed. “We stand firm” has become the favoured chant at the ground. It's hard to ignore the excitement.
- Complete analysis coming soon.
