The Tynecastle side Move 8 Points Clear in Front at the Pinnacle After Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Kick Overcomes The Hoops
History wasn't made at Tynecastle Park, since it's far too early for such landmarks. The encounter underlined is that Hearts are at least in with credible shot of disrupting Scottish football's four decade-long dominance by two. That advantage stands at eight points for Hearts over the visitors, whom they comfortably swatted aside. The challenge is now for others.
Decisive Period in the Second Half
A brief but pivotal phase were key, once the initial exchanges that was fiercely fought. The striking aspect after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how untroubled the remainder of the game was for the Tynecastle team. The Greek winger netted the second goal, cutting in from the left before blasting a strike past the stationary Kasper Schmeichel. More joy followed in the stands, the Celtic defender bringing down Braga for a penalty that Lawrence Shankland slotted home. Rodgers appeared frustrated; his problems are mounting.
Supporters began celebrating after Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against Celtic.
The Visitors' Fightback
Celtic had actually recovered well from the hosts' quick opening. Dane Murray, who endured a torrid afternoon, scored an own goal due to confusion when trying to clear a delivery from Shankland. The Hoops worked their way into the game, the captain McGregor, finishing a Tierney pass for 1-1.
Stubborn Defence
The shot-stopper Alexander Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Nygren in the first half, kept out an Engels shot which flicked off Magnússon. Craig Halkett blocked a Shin Yamada attempt in stoppage time. The hosts faced little else as the minutes passed. “We shall not be moved” has become the popular anthem at the stadium. One cannot overlook the noise.
- Complete analysis to follow.
