The Jambos Extend 8 Points Ahead Clear at Top Following Lawrence Shankland's Spot-Kick Sees Off Celtic
History wasn't made at Tynecastle, with it being far too early for such milestones. What this match did emphasise is that Heart of Midlothian are at least in with serious opportunity of ending Scottish football's 40-year dominance by two. That advantage stands at eight points for the maroon side over the visitors, whom they decisively beat. Try to chase them down.
Key Moments in the After the Break
A brief but pivotal phase were key, after an opening period that was evenly matched. It was remarkable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how untroubled the closing stages of the game was for the home side. Alexandros Kyziridis scored Hearts’ second, drifting inside before firing a powerful effort past the stationary the Celtic keeper. More joy followed in the stands, the Celtic defender bringing down the Hearts player for a foul that Lawrence Shankland converted. The Celtic manager appeared frustrated; challenges abound for him.
The crowd erupted after Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against Celtic.
The Visitors' Fightback
Celtic had actually recovered well from Hearts’ rapid start. Dane Murray, who struggled throughout, turned the ball into his own net due to panic when trying to clear a delivery from Shankland. They gradually fought back into the game, the captain McGregor, finishing a Tierney pass for the equaliser.
Solid Backline
The shot-stopper Schwolow, who had denied from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, kept out an Arne Engels shot which flicked off Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett thwarted a Shin Yamada attempt in added time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the minutes passed. “We shall not be moved” has become the popular anthem at the stadium. One cannot overlook the noise.
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