Hearts Push 8 Points Clear at the Pinnacle Following Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Defeats Celtic
History wasn't made at Tynecastle, with it being far too early for such landmarks. What this match did emphasise is that Heart of Midlothian have a genuine credible shot of ending Scottish football's long-standing stranglehold. Make that an eight-point lead for the team over the visitors, whom they decisively beat. Catch them if you can.
Key Moments in the Second Half
A crucial three-minute spell made the difference, after an opening period that was fiercely fought. It was remarkable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how untroubled the rest of the game was for the hosts. Kyziridis doubled the lead, drifting inside before blasting a strike past the static the Celtic keeper. More joy followed in the stands, the Celtic defender bringing down Braga for a spot-kick that Lawrence Shankland tucked away. Rodgers looked dejected; his problems are mounting.
Supporters began celebrating after Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against Celtic.
The Visitors' Fightback
Celtic had actually recovered well from Hearts’ rapid start. Dane Murray, who endured a torrid afternoon, turned the ball into his own net due to confusion when trying to remove a ball into the box. Celtic edged their way back into the game, the captain Callum McGregor, turning home a Tierney pass for the equaliser.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The Hearts goalkeeper Alexander Schwolow, who had denied from Nygren in the first half, kept out an Arne Engels shot which flicked off Magnússon. Craig Halkett stopped a Yamada attempt in added time. The hosts faced little else as the minutes passed. “We remain resolute” has become the popular anthem at the ground. It is becoming increasingly difficult the noise.
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