The Tynecastle side Move Eight Points Clear Ahead at Top After Lawrence Shankland's Spot-Kick Defeats Celtic
A historic moment didn't occur at Tynecastle Park, as it's far too early for such milestones. This game highlighted is that Heart of Midlothian are at least in with strong chance of breaking Scottish football's four decade-long stranglehold. That advantage stands at eight points for Hearts over their rivals, whom they comfortably swatted aside. Catch them if you can.
Key Moments in the Second Half
A crucial three-minute spell made the difference, once the initial exchanges that was fiercely fought. What was so notable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how stress-free the closing stages of the game was for the hosts. The Greek winger doubled the lead, cutting in from the left before blasting a strike past the static the Celtic keeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Murray upending Cláudio Braga for a penalty that Shankland converted. Brendan Rodgers looked dejected; his problems are mounting.
Supporters began celebrating after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against the opposition.
The Visitors' Fightback
The away side responded positively from an early setback. The defender, who endured a torrid afternoon, conceded an own goal due to panic when trying to clear a delivery from Shankland. They gradually fought back into the game, skipper Callum McGregor, turning home a Kieran Tierney cutback for level terms.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The Hearts goalkeeper Alexander Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Nygren in the first half, kept out an Arne Engels shot which flicked off Tómas Magnússon. Halkett stopped a Shin Yamada attempt in the dying moments. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the clock ticked down. “We shall not be moved” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the ground. It is becoming increasingly difficult the buzz.
- Full report to follow.
