The Jambos Extend 8 Points Clear at Top After Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Kick Sees Off Celtic
A historic moment didn't occur at Tynecastle Park, with it being far too early for such landmarks. The encounter underlined is that Heart of Midlothian are at least in with serious opportunity of ending Scottish football's long-standing title duopoly. That advantage stands at eight points for the team over the visitors, whom they easily dispatched. Try to chase them down.
Key Moments in the After the Break
A crucial three-minute spell made the difference, after an opening period that was evenly matched. What was so notable after they extended their advantage was how stress-free the closing stages of the game was for the home side. The Greek winger doubled the lead, moving infield before firing a powerful effort past the motionless the goalkeeper. Delight increased in the stands, Dane Murray upending the Hearts player for a foul that Shankland tucked away. Rodgers looked dejected; his problems are mounting.
Supporters began celebrating after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against Celtic.
Celtic's Response
The away side responded positively from the hosts' quick opening. The defender, who endured a torrid afternoon, turned the ball into his own net due to confusion when trying to clear a delivery from Shankland. The Hoops worked their way into the game, skipper Callum McGregor, finishing a Tierney cutback for level terms.
Solid Backline
The keeper Alexander Schwolow, who had denied from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, parried an Engels shot which deflected off Magnússon. Halkett thwarted a Shin Yamada attempt in stoppage time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the clock ticked down. “We remain resolute” has become the favoured chant at the ground. One cannot overlook the excitement.
- Complete analysis to follow.
