Hearts Move Eight Points in Front at the Pinnacle After Lawrence Shankland's Spot-Kick Sees Off The Hoops
History wasn't made at their home ground, since it's far too early for such landmarks. What this match did emphasise is that the Edinburgh club have a genuine serious opportunity of disrupting Scottish football's long-standing title duopoly. They now lead by eight points for the maroon side over their rivals, whom they decisively beat. The challenge is now for others.
Key Moments in the Second Half
Three second-half minutes proved decisive, after an opening period that was fiercely fought. What was so notable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how stress-free the rest of the game was for the hosts. The Greek winger doubled the lead, moving infield before firing a powerful effort past the stationary Kasper Schmeichel. More joy followed in the stands, Murray bringing down the Hearts player for a foul that Lawrence Shankland slotted home. Brendan Rodgers looked dejected; challenges abound for him.
The crowd erupted after Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against the opposition.
The Visitors' Fightback
Celtic bounced back from the hosts' quick opening. Murray, who struggled throughout, turned the ball into his own net due to confusion when trying to clear a ball into the box. Celtic edged their way back into the game, leader Callum McGregor, finishing a Kieran Tierney cutback for level terms.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The keeper Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop 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 the dying moments. The hosts faced little else as the clock ticked down. “We shall not be moved” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the ground. It's hard to ignore the buzz.
- Detailed coverage to follow.
