The Tynecastle side Extend Eight Points Ahead Clear at the Pinnacle After Lawrence Shankland's Spot-Kick Defeats The Hoops
We did not witness at their home ground, since it's far too early for such achievements. What this match did emphasise is that the Edinburgh club are at least in with credible shot of disrupting Scottish football's 40-year title duopoly. That advantage stands at eight points for the maroon side over the visitors, whom they comfortably swatted aside. Try to chase them down.
Key Moments in the After the Break
A brief but pivotal phase made the difference, following a tight first half that was contested closely. What was so notable after they extended their advantage was how untroubled the rest of the game was for the Tynecastle team. The Greek winger doubled the lead, moving infield before firing a powerful effort past the stationary Kasper Schmeichel. More joy followed in the stands, Dane Murray bringing down Cláudio Braga for a foul that Lawrence Shankland tucked away. The Celtic manager looked dejected; challenges abound for him.
Supporters began celebrating after Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against the opposition.
The Visitors' Fightback
Celtic bounced back from the hosts' quick opening. The defender, who endured a torrid afternoon, turned the ball into his own net due to panic when trying to deal with a delivery from Shankland. Celtic edged their way back into the game, skipper McGregor, turning home a Tierney pull-back for the equaliser.
Stubborn Defence
The Hearts goalkeeper Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Nygren in the first half, parried an Engels shot which deflected off Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett blocked a Yamada attempt in the dying moments. The hosts faced little else as the clock ticked down. “We stand firm” has become the favoured chant at the ground. It is becoming increasingly difficult the noise.
- Detailed coverage to follow.
