The Jambos Move 8 Points Ahead Ahead at the Summit After Lawrence Shankland's Spot-Kick Sees Off Celtic
History wasn't made at Tynecastle Park, as it's far too early for such achievements. The encounter underlined is that the Edinburgh club are at least in with strong chance of disrupting Scottish football's four decade-long stranglehold. Make that an eight-point lead for the maroon side over the visitors, whom they easily dispatched. Catch them if you can.
Turning Point in the After the Break
A brief but pivotal phase were key, following a tight first half that was contested closely. It was remarkable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how comfortable the closing stages of the game was for the home side. The Greek winger doubled the lead, drifting inside before firing a powerful effort past the static the Celtic keeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Murray bringing down Braga for a foul that Lawrence Shankland slotted home. Brendan Rodgers appeared frustrated; his problems are mounting.
Supporters began celebrating after Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against Celtic.
Celtic's Response
The away side responded positively from Hearts’ rapid start. The defender, who had a difficult day, conceded an own goal due to confusion when trying to remove a delivery from Shankland. Celtic edged their way back into the game, the captain McGregor, scoring a Tierney cutback for 1-1.
Solid Backline
The shot-stopper Schwolow, who had denied from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, parried an Arne Engels shot which flicked off Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett blocked a Yamada attempt in stoppage time. They comfortably saw out the game as the minutes passed. “We shall not be moved” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the ground. One cannot overlook the noise.
- Complete analysis to follow.
