Hearts Extend 8 Points Ahead Clear at the Summit Following Shankland's Penalty Kick Sees Off Celtic
We did not witness at their home ground, since it's far too early for such landmarks. What this match did emphasise is that Hearts have a genuine credible shot of ending Scottish football's four decade-long stranglehold. Make that an eight-point lead for the team over the visitors, whom they decisively beat. Catch them if you can.
Turning Point in the Second Half
A crucial three-minute spell proved decisive, once the initial exchanges that was evenly matched. The striking aspect after they extended their advantage was how untroubled the remainder of the game was for the home side. Alexandros Kyziridis netted the second goal, drifting inside before blasting a strike past the stationary Kasper Schmeichel. Delight increased in the stands, the Celtic defender fouling Cláudio Braga for a foul that Shankland tucked away. Brendan Rodgers looked dejected; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
The crowd erupted after Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against the opposition.
Hoops' Reaction
The away side responded positively from Hearts’ rapid start. Murray, who struggled throughout, turned the ball into his own net due to confusion when trying to remove a ball into the box. They gradually fought back into the game, leader Callum McGregor, finishing a Kieran Tierney pull-back for 1-1.
Stubborn Defence
The keeper Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Nygren in the first half, parried an Arne Engels shot which touched Tómas Magnússon. Halkett stopped a Yamada attempt in stoppage time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the minutes passed. “We remain resolute” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the stadium. It's hard to ignore the excitement.
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