Hearts Push Eight Points Ahead in Front at the Pinnacle Following Shankland's Penalty Kick Sees Off Celtic
We did not witness at their home ground, with it being far too early for such landmarks. What this match did emphasise is that Hearts possess a real serious opportunity of breaking Scottish football's 40-year title duopoly. They now lead by eight points for the maroon side over their rivals, whom they decisively beat. The challenge is now for others.
Key Moments in the Second Half
A brief but pivotal phase proved decisive, following a tight first half that was fiercely fought. The striking aspect after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how untroubled the remainder of the game was for the Tynecastle team. The Greek winger scored Hearts’ second, cutting in from the left before blasting a strike past the stationary Kasper Schmeichel. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Dane Murray bringing down Braga for a spot-kick that Lawrence Shankland converted. Brendan Rodgers looked dejected; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
Fans start to rejoice after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against the opposition.
The Visitors' Fightback
Celtic had actually recovered well from Hearts’ rapid start. The defender, who struggled throughout, turned the ball into his own net due to haste when trying to remove a Shankland cross. The Hoops worked their way into the game, the captain McGregor, turning home a Tierney cutback for level terms.
Stubborn Defence
The keeper Alexander Schwolow, who had denied from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, parried an Engels shot which deflected off Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett thwarted a Yamada attempt in stoppage time. The hosts faced little else as the clock ticked down. “We remain resolute” has become the favoured chant at the stadium. One cannot overlook the noise.
- Full report will be available.
