Hearts Extend 8 Points Ahead at the Pinnacle After Shankland's Penalty Overcomes Celtic
We did not witness at Tynecastle Park, as it's far too early for such achievements. What this match did emphasise is that Heart of Midlothian have a genuine strong chance of ending Scottish football's 40-year dominance by two. That advantage stands at eight points for the maroon side over the visitors, whom they decisively beat. The challenge is now for others.
Decisive Period in the Latter Period
A brief but pivotal phase were key, following a tight first half that was fiercely fought. It was remarkable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how untroubled the remainder of the game was for the home side. Kyziridis netted the second goal, moving infield before blasting a strike past the static the goalkeeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, the Celtic defender upending Cláudio Braga for a foul that Lawrence Shankland converted. Rodgers looked dejected; challenges abound for him.
The crowd erupted after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against the opposition.
Hoops' Reaction
The away side responded positively from the hosts' quick opening. The defender, who endured a torrid afternoon, scored an own goal due to panic when trying to remove a Shankland cross. They gradually fought back into the game, skipper McGregor, turning home a Kieran Tierney cutback for the equaliser.
Solid Backline
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 stopped a Shin 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 Tynecastle. One cannot overlook the noise.
- Detailed coverage to follow.
