Hearts Move Eight Points Clear Ahead at Top Following Lawrence Shankland's Spot-Kick Defeats Celtic
History wasn't made at their home ground, with it being far too early for such achievements. What this match did emphasise is that the Edinburgh club have a genuine strong chance of ending Scottish football's 40-year dominance by two. They now lead by eight points for the maroon side over the visitors, whom they easily dispatched. Try to chase them down.
Turning Point in the Second Half
A crucial three-minute spell were key, after an opening period that was fiercely fought. It was remarkable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how stress-free the closing stages of the game was for the home side. Alexandros Kyziridis netted the second goal, cutting in from the left before thumping a right-footed shot past the static the Celtic keeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Dane Murray upending Cláudio Braga for a spot-kick that Shankland converted. The Celtic manager appeared frustrated; his problems are mounting.
The crowd erupted after Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against Celtic.
Hoops' Reaction
The away side responded positively from an early setback. Murray, who struggled throughout, turned the ball into his own net due to haste when trying to deal with a Shankland cross. They gradually fought back into the game, leader McGregor, scoring a Kieran Tierney pull-back 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 touched Tómas Magnússon. Halkett stopped a Shin Yamada attempt in the dying moments. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the minutes passed. “We shall not be moved” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the ground. It's hard to ignore the noise.
- Complete analysis to follow.
