The Tynecastle side Extend Eight Points Clear Ahead at Top Following Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Kick Defeats The Hoops
We did not witness at Tynecastle, with it being far too early for such milestones. What this match did emphasise is that Hearts possess a real strong chance of breaking Scottish football's 40-year title duopoly. Make that an eight-point lead for the team over the visitors, whom they easily dispatched. Catch them if you can.
Decisive Period in the Second Half
Three second-half minutes were key, following a tight first half that was fiercely fought. It was remarkable after they extended their advantage was how untroubled the rest of the game was for the Tynecastle team. The Greek winger doubled the lead, drifting inside before blasting a strike past the static the Celtic keeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, the Celtic defender upending Cláudio Braga for a spot-kick that Lawrence Shankland slotted home. The Celtic manager cut such a disconsolate figure; his problems are mounting.
Supporters began celebrating after Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against the opposition.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic bounced back from the hosts' quick opening. The defender, who had a difficult day, turned the ball into his own net due to haste when trying to deal with a delivery from Shankland. They gradually fought back into the game, leader McGregor, scoring a Kieran Tierney cutback for the equaliser.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The Hearts goalkeeper Alexander Schwolow, who had denied from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, blocked an Engels shot which flicked off Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett thwarted a Yamada attempt in added time. They comfortably saw out the game as the game concluded. “We remain resolute” has become the popular anthem at Tynecastle. One cannot overlook the noise.
- Complete analysis coming soon.
