The Jambos Push Eight Points Ahead in Front at Top After Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Kick Overcomes The Hoops
A historic moment didn't occur at Tynecastle, as it's far too early for such achievements. This game highlighted is that the Edinburgh club possess a real strong chance of breaking Scottish football's 40-year stranglehold. Make that an eight-point lead for the team over their rivals, whom they comfortably swatted aside. Try to chase them down.
Key Moments in the After the Break
Three second-half minutes made the difference, once the initial exchanges that was evenly matched. What was so notable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how untroubled the closing stages of the game was for the home side. Kyziridis doubled the lead, moving infield before thumping a right-footed shot past the static Kasper Schmeichel. More joy followed in the stands, Dane Murray upending Braga for a penalty that Lawrence Shankland converted. Rodgers appeared frustrated; challenges abound for him.
Supporters began celebrating after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against the opposition.
Celtic's Response
Celtic had actually recovered well from an early setback. Murray, who had a difficult day, scored an own goal due to confusion when trying to deal with a ball into the box. The Hoops worked their way into the game, leader McGregor, finishing a Kieran Tierney pull-back for the equaliser.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The Hearts goalkeeper Alexander Schwolow, who had denied from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, parried an Arne Engels shot which flicked off Tómas Magnússon. Halkett thwarted a Shin Yamada attempt in stoppage time. They comfortably saw out the game as the clock ticked down. “We stand firm” has become the popular anthem at Tynecastle. One cannot overlook the excitement.
- Detailed coverage to follow.
