The Tynecastle side Move 8 Points Clear Clear at the Pinnacle Following Lawrence Shankland's Spot-Kick Overcomes The Hoops
History wasn't made at their home ground, since it's far too early for such achievements. The encounter underlined is that the Edinburgh club have a genuine strong chance of disrupting Scottish football's four decade-long stranglehold. They now lead by eight points for the maroon side over the visitors, whom they easily dispatched. The challenge is now for others.
Decisive Period in the Second Half
A brief but pivotal phase made the difference, following a tight first half that was contested closely. What was so notable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how untroubled the rest of the game was for the home side. Kyziridis doubled the lead, moving infield before thumping a right-footed shot past the stationary the Celtic keeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Murray upending Braga for a spot-kick that Lawrence Shankland converted. Rodgers looked dejected; challenges abound for him.
Fans start to rejoice after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against Celtic.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic bounced back from the hosts' quick opening. Murray, who had a difficult day, conceded an own goal due to haste when trying to clear a ball into the box. They gradually fought back into the game, skipper Callum McGregor, scoring a Kieran Tierney cutback for 1-1.
Stubborn Defence
The shot-stopper Alexander Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, blocked an Engels shot which touched Tómas Magnússon. Craig 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 favoured chant at Tynecastle. One cannot overlook the buzz.
- Detailed coverage coming soon.
