The Jambos Push Eight Points Ahead in Front at the Pinnacle Following Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Defeats The Hoops
A historic moment didn't occur at Tynecastle, as it's far too early for such achievements. The encounter underlined is that Hearts are at least in with serious opportunity of ending Scottish football's long-standing title duopoly. Make that an eight-point lead for Hearts over their rivals, whom they decisively beat. Catch them if you can.
Turning Point in the Latter Period
Three second-half minutes made the difference, once the initial exchanges that was fiercely fought. What was so notable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how comfortable the remainder of the game was for the hosts. Kyziridis netted the second goal, moving infield before firing a powerful effort past the stationary the Celtic keeper. Delight increased in the stands, the Celtic defender upending the Hearts player for a spot-kick that the captain converted. The Celtic manager cut such a disconsolate figure; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
The crowd erupted after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against the opposition.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic bounced back from the hosts' quick opening. Dane Murray, who had a difficult day, turned the ball into his own net due to haste when trying to clear a ball into the box. The Hoops worked their way into the game, skipper Callum McGregor, turning home a Kieran Tierney pass for the equaliser.
Stubborn Defence
The shot-stopper Alexander Schwolow, who had denied from Nygren in the first half, kept out an Engels shot which deflected off Tómas Magnússon. Halkett stopped a Shin Yamada attempt in added time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the minutes passed. “We shall not be moved” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the stadium. It's hard to ignore the buzz.
- Full report to follow.
