The Tynecastle side Extend Eight Points Ahead Clear at Top After Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Kick Sees Off The Hoops
A historic moment didn't occur at their home ground, since it's far too early for such milestones. This game highlighted is that the Edinburgh club have a genuine credible shot of ending Scottish football's four decade-long title duopoly. They now lead by eight points for the maroon side over their rivals, whom they decisively beat. Try to chase them down.
Turning Point in the Second Half
Three second-half minutes made the difference, once the initial exchanges that was contested closely. It was remarkable after they extended their advantage was how comfortable the remainder of the game was for the Tynecastle team. The Greek winger doubled the lead, drifting inside before thumping a right-footed shot past the stationary the Celtic keeper. More joy followed in the stands, Dane Murray bringing down Braga for a foul that Lawrence Shankland converted. Brendan Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
The crowd erupted after Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against the opposition.
Hoops' Reaction
The away side responded positively from the hosts' quick opening. Murray, who struggled throughout, conceded an own goal due to confusion when trying to clear a Shankland cross. The Hoops worked their way into the game, leader McGregor, finishing a Tierney cutback for 1-1.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The Hearts goalkeeper Alexander Schwolow, who had denied from Nygren in the first half, parried an Arne Engels shot which deflected off Magnússon. Halkett thwarted 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 favoured chant at Tynecastle. It's hard to ignore the buzz.
- Complete analysis to follow.
