The Jambos Extend 8 Points Clear Clear at Top Following Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Kick Sees Off The Hoops
History wasn't made at Tynecastle Park, as it's far too early for such landmarks. This game highlighted is that the Edinburgh club have a genuine strong chance of ending Scottish football's 40-year stranglehold. That advantage stands at eight points for Hearts over their rivals, whom they decisively beat. Try to chase them down.
Decisive Period in the Latter Period
A crucial three-minute spell made the difference, after an opening period that was fiercely fought. The striking aspect after they took a 3-1 lead was how comfortable the rest of the game was for the home side. Kyziridis doubled the lead, cutting in from the left before firing a powerful effort past the motionless the goalkeeper. Delight increased in the stands, the Celtic defender fouling the Hearts player for a penalty that Lawrence Shankland converted. Rodgers looked dejected; challenges abound for him.
Fans start to rejoice after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against Celtic.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic had actually recovered well from an early setback. Dane Murray, who struggled throughout, conceded an own goal due to haste when trying to deal with a Shankland cross. The Hoops worked their way into the game, the captain McGregor, scoring a Tierney pass for 1-1.
Stubborn Defence
The shot-stopper Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, blocked an Engels shot which touched Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett thwarted a Shin Yamada attempt in added time. The hosts faced little else as the minutes passed. “We remain resolute” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the ground. It is becoming increasingly difficult the buzz.
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