The Tynecastle side Extend 8 Points Clear Ahead at Top After Lawrence Shankland's Spot-Kick Sees Off The Hoops
We did not witness at their home ground, as it's far too early for such milestones. What this match did emphasise is that Heart of Midlothian have a genuine strong chance of disrupting Scottish football's 40-year stranglehold. Make that an eight-point lead for the team over their rivals, whom they decisively beat. Catch them if you can.
Key Moments in the After the Break
Three second-half minutes proved decisive, once the initial exchanges that was evenly matched. What was so notable after they took a 3-1 lead was how comfortable the rest of the game was for the home side. The Greek winger scored Hearts’ second, drifting inside before thumping a right-footed shot past the static the goalkeeper. Delight increased in the stands, Murray upending the Hearts player for a foul that the captain tucked away. The Celtic manager cut such a disconsolate figure; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
Supporters began celebrating after Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against Celtic.
The Visitors' Fightback
Celtic bounced back from the hosts' quick opening. Dane Murray, who had a difficult day, conceded an own goal due to confusion when trying to clear a ball into the box. They gradually fought back into the game, skipper McGregor, finishing a Kieran Tierney pull-back for 1-1.
Stubborn Defence
The shot-stopper Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, parried an Engels shot which deflected off Magnússon. Halkett thwarted a Shin Yamada attempt in stoppage time. They comfortably saw out the game as the clock ticked down. “We remain resolute” has become the popular anthem at Tynecastle. It's hard to ignore the buzz.
- Full report will be available.
