The Tynecastle side Push 8 Points Ahead Ahead at the Pinnacle After Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Overcomes Celtic
History wasn't made at Tynecastle, since it's far too early for such landmarks. This game highlighted is that Heart of Midlothian have a genuine credible shot of disrupting Scottish football's 40-year title duopoly. They now lead by eight points for the maroon side over the visitors, whom they decisively beat. Catch them if you can.
Key Moments in the After the Break
Three second-half minutes proved decisive, after an opening period that was evenly matched. The striking aspect after they took a 3-1 lead was how stress-free the closing stages of the game was for the home side. The Greek winger doubled the lead, moving infield before firing a powerful effort past the static Kasper Schmeichel. Delight increased in the stands, the Celtic defender upending Cláudio Braga for a spot-kick that Lawrence Shankland slotted home. The Celtic manager appeared frustrated; his problems are mounting.
Fans start to rejoice after Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against Celtic.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic bounced back from Hearts’ rapid start. Dane Murray, who had a difficult day, conceded an own goal due to haste when trying to remove a delivery from Shankland. They gradually fought back into the game, leader Callum McGregor, turning home a Kieran Tierney cutback for the equaliser.
Solid Backline
The keeper Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, parried an Arne Engels shot which touched Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett blocked a Yamada attempt in stoppage time. The hosts faced little else as the minutes passed. “We shall not be moved” has become the favoured chant at Tynecastle. It is becoming increasingly difficult the buzz.
- Complete analysis to follow.
