The Jambos Extend 8 Points Ahead in Front at the Pinnacle After Lawrence Shankland's Spot-Kick Sees Off Celtic
We did not witness at their home ground, as it's far too early for such landmarks. This game highlighted is that Heart of Midlothian are at least in with strong chance of breaking Scottish football's four decade-long title duopoly. That advantage stands at eight points for the team over Celtic, whom they easily dispatched. Try to chase them down.
Key Moments in the Latter Period
A brief but pivotal phase made the difference, following a tight first half that was fiercely fought. It was remarkable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how stress-free the remainder of the game was for the home side. Kyziridis doubled the lead, moving infield before blasting a strike past the stationary the Celtic keeper. More joy followed in the stands, the Celtic defender bringing down Braga for a spot-kick that the captain slotted home. The Celtic manager looked dejected; his problems are mounting.
The crowd erupted after Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against Celtic.
Celtic's Response
Celtic bounced back from Hearts’ rapid start. The defender, who endured a torrid afternoon, turned the ball into his own net due to panic when trying to clear a ball into the box. Celtic edged their way back into the game, skipper Callum McGregor, turning home a Kieran Tierney cutback for 1-1.
Solid Backline
The keeper Alexander Schwolow, who had denied from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, parried an Engels shot which touched Tómas Magnússon. Halkett stopped a Shin Yamada attempt in the dying moments. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the minutes passed. “We remain resolute” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at Tynecastle. It's hard to ignore the buzz.
- Full report will be available.
