The Jambos Extend 8 Points Ahead at the Summit After Lawrence Shankland's Spot-Kick Sees Off The Hoops
A historic moment didn't occur at Tynecastle Park, as it's far too early for such achievements. What this match did emphasise is that Hearts possess a real serious opportunity of breaking Scottish football's four decade-long stranglehold. They now lead by eight points for Hearts over the visitors, whom they easily dispatched. Catch them if you can.
Key Moments in the Second Half
A brief but pivotal phase proved decisive, once the initial exchanges that was evenly matched. It was remarkable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how comfortable the remainder of the game was for the hosts. The Greek winger scored Hearts’ second, drifting inside before thumping a right-footed shot past the stationary the goalkeeper. Delight increased in the stands, Murray bringing down the Hearts player for a spot-kick that the captain slotted home. Brendan Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; his problems are mounting.
The crowd erupted after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against Celtic.
Hoops' Reaction
The away side responded positively from an early setback. The defender, who had a difficult day, conceded an own goal due to confusion when trying to clear a ball into the box. They gradually fought back into the game, skipper McGregor, scoring a Kieran Tierney pass for level terms.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The shot-stopper Alexander Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, blocked an Arne Engels shot which flicked off Magnússon. Halkett blocked a Yamada attempt in the dying moments. They comfortably saw out the game as the minutes passed. “We remain resolute” has become the favoured chant at the stadium. One cannot overlook the buzz.
- Detailed coverage will be available.
