The Tynecastle side Move 8 Points Ahead at Top After Lawrence Shankland's Spot-Kick Sees Off Celtic
A historic moment didn't occur at their home ground, with it being far too early for such milestones. What this match did emphasise is that Hearts have a genuine credible shot of disrupting Scottish football's long-standing stranglehold. They now lead by eight points for the maroon side over their rivals, whom they decisively beat. Catch them if you can.
Key Moments in the Latter Period
A crucial three-minute spell were key, once the initial exchanges that was contested closely. It was remarkable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how untroubled the closing stages of the game was for the home side. Kyziridis doubled the lead, cutting in from the left before firing a powerful effort past the motionless the Celtic keeper. Delight increased in the stands, Dane Murray upending Braga for a spot-kick that Lawrence Shankland tucked away. Brendan Rodgers appeared frustrated; his problems are mounting.
Supporters began celebrating after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against the opposition.
Celtic's Response
Celtic had actually recovered well from the hosts' quick opening. The defender, who struggled throughout, turned the ball into his own net due to confusion when trying to remove a delivery from Shankland. The Hoops worked their way into the game, skipper Callum McGregor, turning home a Tierney cutback for 1-1.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The Hearts goalkeeper Schwolow, who had denied from Nygren in the first half, parried an Arne Engels shot which flicked off Magnússon. Halkett thwarted a Shin Yamada attempt in added time. They comfortably saw out the game as the clock ticked down. “We stand firm” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the ground. It's hard to ignore the noise.
- Full report will be available.
