The Tynecastle side Move 8 Points Clear Ahead at the Summit After Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Kick Overcomes Celtic
We did not witness at their home ground, since it's far too early for such milestones. What this match did emphasise is that Hearts have a genuine strong chance of ending Scottish football's four decade-long dominance by two. Make that an eight-point lead for the maroon side over the visitors, whom they easily dispatched. The challenge is now for others.
Key Moments in the Second Half
A crucial three-minute spell made the difference, once the initial exchanges that was fiercely fought. What was so notable after they took a 3-1 lead was how untroubled the closing stages of the game was for the home side. Kyziridis scored Hearts’ second, drifting inside before thumping a right-footed shot past the static the Celtic keeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Murray bringing down Cláudio Braga for a penalty that the captain tucked away. Rodgers appeared frustrated; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
The crowd erupted after Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against the opposition.
Hoops' Reaction
The away side responded positively from Hearts’ rapid start. The defender, who had a difficult day, scored an own goal due to panic when trying to remove a delivery from Shankland. Celtic edged their way back into the game, the captain McGregor, scoring a Tierney pass for 1-1.
Solid Backline
The Hearts goalkeeper Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Nygren in the first half, parried an Arne Engels shot which touched Tómas Magnússon. Halkett thwarted a Yamada attempt in the dying moments. The hosts faced little else as the clock ticked down. “We remain resolute” has become the favoured chant at the stadium. It is becoming increasingly difficult the excitement.
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