The Tynecastle side Push 8 Points Ahead Ahead at Top Following Shankland's Spot-Kick Overcomes The Hoops
History wasn't made at Tynecastle Park, since it's far too early for such achievements. This game highlighted is that Heart of Midlothian possess a real credible shot of disrupting Scottish football's 40-year title duopoly. Make that an eight-point lead for the team over Celtic, whom they easily dispatched. Catch them if you can.
Turning Point in the After the Break
A crucial three-minute spell made the difference, after an opening period that was contested closely. What was so notable after they extended their advantage was how comfortable the closing stages of the game was for the hosts. Alexandros Kyziridis netted the second goal, moving infield before thumping a right-footed shot past the motionless the Celtic keeper. More joy followed in the stands, the Celtic defender fouling Braga for a spot-kick that Shankland slotted home. Brendan Rodgers appeared frustrated; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
The crowd erupted after Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against the opposition.
The Visitors' Fightback
The away side responded positively from the hosts' quick opening. Dane Murray, who endured a torrid afternoon, 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, leader McGregor, turning home a Kieran Tierney cutback for the equaliser.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The Hearts goalkeeper Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, blocked an Arne Engels shot which flicked off Tómas Magnússon. Halkett blocked a Shin Yamada attempt in the dying moments. They comfortably saw out the game as the minutes passed. “We shall not be moved” has become the popular anthem at Tynecastle. One cannot overlook the excitement.
- Full report will be available.
