Hearts Push Eight Points Ahead in Front at Top Following Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Overcomes Celtic
We did not witness at Tynecastle, since it's far too early for such milestones. The encounter underlined is that Heart of Midlothian possess a real serious opportunity of ending Scottish football's four decade-long stranglehold. Make that an eight-point lead for the maroon side over their rivals, whom they easily dispatched. The challenge is now for others.
Decisive Period in the Latter Period
A brief but pivotal phase were key, once the initial exchanges that was evenly matched. The striking aspect after they took a 3-1 lead was how comfortable the closing stages of the game was for the home side. Kyziridis netted the second goal, cutting in from the left before blasting a strike past the motionless Kasper Schmeichel. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Dane Murray bringing down Cláudio Braga for a penalty that the captain converted. Rodgers looked dejected; his problems are mounting.
Supporters began celebrating after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against the opposition.
The Visitors' Fightback
Celtic bounced back from the hosts' quick opening. Murray, who endured a torrid afternoon, scored an own goal due to confusion when trying to clear a ball into the box. They gradually fought back into the game, the captain McGregor, turning home a Tierney pull-back for the equaliser.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The shot-stopper Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, blocked an Arne Engels shot which flicked off Magnússon. Craig Halkett thwarted a Shin Yamada attempt in the dying moments. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the minutes passed. “We shall not be moved” has become the popular anthem at Tynecastle. It is becoming increasingly difficult the buzz.
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