The Tynecastle side Push 8 Points in Front at the Pinnacle After Shankland's Spot-Kick Defeats Celtic
We did not witness at their home ground, with it being far too early for such achievements. The encounter underlined is that Hearts possess a real strong chance of ending Scottish football's 40-year title duopoly. Make that an eight-point lead for the team over the visitors, whom they comfortably swatted aside. The challenge is now for others.
Turning Point in the Second Half
A brief but pivotal phase proved decisive, following a tight first half that was contested closely. What was so notable after they took a 3-1 lead was how untroubled the closing stages of the game was for the Tynecastle team. The Greek winger scored Hearts’ second, cutting in from the left before firing a powerful effort past the stationary the goalkeeper. More joy followed in the stands, the Celtic defender upending Braga for a foul that Lawrence Shankland tucked away. Brendan Rodgers looked dejected; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
Fans start to rejoice after Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against the opposition.
The Visitors' Fightback
Celtic bounced back from an early setback. The defender, who struggled throughout, conceded an own goal due to panic when trying to clear a delivery from Shankland. Celtic edged their way back into the game, skipper Callum McGregor, finishing a Tierney pass for 1-1.
Solid Backline
The Hearts goalkeeper Alexander Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Nygren in the first half, blocked an Arne Engels shot which flicked off Magnússon. Halkett stopped a Yamada attempt in stoppage time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the clock ticked down. “We remain resolute” has become the popular anthem at the ground. One cannot overlook the excitement.
- Complete analysis to follow.
