Hearts Push 8 Points Ahead in Front at Top Following Shankland's Penalty Kick Defeats Celtic
We did not witness at Tynecastle, since it's far too early for such milestones. What this match did emphasise is that Heart of Midlothian possess a real credible shot of disrupting Scottish football's long-standing title duopoly. Make that an eight-point lead for the team over their rivals, whom they comfortably swatted aside. Try to chase them down.
Turning Point in the Second Half
A crucial three-minute spell made the difference, following a tight first half that was evenly matched. What was so notable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how untroubled the remainder of the game was for the hosts. Alexandros Kyziridis scored Hearts’ second, drifting inside before firing a powerful effort past the static the goalkeeper. Delight increased in the stands, the Celtic defender fouling Braga for a foul that Shankland slotted home. Rodgers looked dejected; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
Supporters began celebrating after Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against the opposition.
Celtic's Response
Celtic had actually recovered well from an early setback. The defender, who struggled throughout, conceded an own goal due to panic when trying to deal with a delivery from Shankland. They gradually fought back into the game, leader Callum McGregor, turning home a Kieran Tierney pass for the equaliser.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The keeper Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, blocked an Arne Engels shot which touched Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett thwarted a Shin Yamada attempt in the dying moments. The hosts faced little else as the minutes passed. “We remain resolute” has become the favoured chant at Tynecastle. One cannot overlook the buzz.
- Complete analysis to follow.
