The Jambos Move Eight Points Ahead Ahead at Top Following Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Sees Off The Hoops
History wasn't made at their home ground, with it being far too early for such milestones. This game highlighted is that Heart of Midlothian possess a real serious opportunity of breaking Scottish football's long-standing dominance by two. That advantage stands at eight points for the team over their rivals, whom they decisively beat. The challenge is now for others.
Decisive Period in the Second Half
A crucial three-minute spell proved decisive, after an opening period that was evenly matched. It was remarkable after they took a 3-1 lead was how untroubled the closing stages of the game was for the Tynecastle team. Alexandros Kyziridis doubled the lead, cutting in from the left before firing a powerful effort past the motionless the goalkeeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, the Celtic defender upending Braga for a penalty that Lawrence Shankland converted. Brendan Rodgers looked dejected; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
The crowd erupted after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against the opposition.
Celtic's Response
Celtic bounced back from Hearts’ rapid start. The defender, who endured a torrid afternoon, conceded an own goal due to panic when trying to remove a Shankland cross. The Hoops worked their way into the game, skipper Callum McGregor, finishing a Tierney pass for the equaliser.
Stubborn Defence
The shot-stopper Alexander Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, parried an Arne Engels shot which touched Magnússon. Craig Halkett stopped a Shin Yamada attempt in the dying moments. The hosts faced little else as the minutes passed. “We stand firm” has become the favoured chant at the stadium. It's hard to ignore the noise.
- Full report to follow.
