The Jambos Extend 8 Points in Front at the Summit After Shankland's Spot-Kick Overcomes Celtic
We did not witness at Tynecastle, as it's far too early for such achievements. What this match did emphasise is that Hearts are at least in with credible shot of disrupting Scottish football's 40-year title duopoly. Make that an eight-point lead for Hearts over Celtic, whom they comfortably swatted aside. The challenge is now for others.
Decisive Period in the Latter Period
A brief but pivotal phase were key, following a tight first half that was evenly matched. The striking aspect after they extended their advantage was how comfortable the rest of the game was for the home side. Alexandros Kyziridis netted the second goal, drifting inside before firing a powerful effort past the stationary Kasper Schmeichel. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, the Celtic defender fouling Cláudio Braga for a penalty that Lawrence Shankland converted. The Celtic manager appeared frustrated; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
The crowd erupted after Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against the opposition.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic had actually recovered well from Hearts’ rapid start. The defender, who struggled throughout, scored an own goal due to confusion when trying to deal with a Shankland cross. They gradually fought back into the game, skipper Callum McGregor, finishing a Tierney cutback for 1-1.
Stubborn Defence
The shot-stopper Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, blocked an Engels shot which touched Magnússon. Craig Halkett blocked a Shin Yamada attempt in the dying moments. They comfortably saw out the game as the clock ticked down. “We remain resolute” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at Tynecastle. It's hard to ignore the noise.
- Detailed coverage coming soon.
