Hearts Push 8 Points in Front at the Summit After Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Kick Overcomes Celtic
History wasn't made at Tynecastle Park, since it's far too early for such milestones. This game highlighted is that Hearts are at least in with strong chance of breaking Scottish football's four decade-long stranglehold. They now lead by eight points for the team over Celtic, whom they easily dispatched. Try to chase them down.
Key Moments in the Latter Period
A crucial three-minute spell made the difference, once the initial exchanges that was fiercely fought. It was remarkable after they took a 3-1 lead was how comfortable the remainder of the game was for the home side. The Greek winger scored Hearts’ second, drifting inside before firing a powerful effort past the stationary the Celtic keeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, the Celtic defender upending the Hearts player for a penalty that Lawrence Shankland tucked away. The Celtic manager cut such a disconsolate figure; challenges abound for him.
The crowd erupted after Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against Celtic.
Celtic's Response
The away side responded positively from the hosts' quick opening. Murray, who had a difficult day, scored an own goal due to panic when trying to deal with a ball into the box. They gradually fought back into the game, skipper McGregor, scoring a Tierney cutback for the equaliser.
Stubborn Defence
The shot-stopper Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Nygren in the first half, kept out an Engels shot which touched Magnússon. Halkett stopped a Yamada attempt in stoppage time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the minutes passed. “We stand firm” has become the favoured chant at Tynecastle. One cannot overlook the noise.
- Full report to follow.
