Hearts Push Eight Points in Front at the Pinnacle Following Lawrence Shankland's Spot-Kick Sees Off The Hoops
We did not witness at Tynecastle, as it's far too early for such achievements. This game highlighted is that Hearts have a genuine serious opportunity of disrupting Scottish football's four decade-long stranglehold. Make that an eight-point lead for the maroon side over their rivals, whom they comfortably swatted aside. The challenge is now for others.
Key Moments in the After the Break
Three second-half minutes made the difference, after an opening period that was fiercely fought. The striking aspect after they extended their advantage was how stress-free the remainder of the game was for the hosts. Kyziridis netted the second goal, cutting in from the left before blasting a strike past the stationary Kasper Schmeichel. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Dane Murray bringing down Braga for a spot-kick that Shankland converted. The Celtic manager cut such a disconsolate figure; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
The crowd erupted after Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against the opposition.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic bounced back from Hearts’ rapid start. The defender, who endured a torrid afternoon, turned the ball into his own net due to confusion when trying to deal with a ball into the box. The Hoops worked their way into the game, leader McGregor, scoring a Tierney pass for the equaliser.
Solid Backline
The Hearts goalkeeper Alexander Schwolow, who had denied from Nygren in the first half, kept out an Arne Engels shot which touched Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett blocked a Shin Yamada attempt in added time. The hosts faced little else as the minutes passed. “We remain resolute” has become the popular anthem at the ground. It's hard to ignore the excitement.
- Full report will be available.
