Hearts Move 8 Points Ahead at the Pinnacle Following Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Defeats The Hoops
We did not witness at their home ground, since it's far too early for such milestones. The encounter underlined is that Hearts have a genuine credible shot of ending Scottish football's four decade-long stranglehold. They now lead by eight points for the team over Celtic, whom they easily dispatched. The challenge is now for others.
Turning Point in the Latter Period
Three second-half minutes were key, following a tight first half that was fiercely fought. It was remarkable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how comfortable the closing stages of the game was for the Tynecastle team. Alexandros Kyziridis scored Hearts’ second, moving infield before firing a powerful effort past the motionless the goalkeeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Dane Murray fouling the Hearts player for a penalty that the captain converted. The Celtic manager looked dejected; challenges abound for him.
Fans start to rejoice after Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against the opposition.
Hoops' Reaction
The away side responded positively from Hearts’ rapid start. Dane Murray, who struggled throughout, scored an own goal due to haste when trying to clear a Shankland cross. They gradually fought back into the game, skipper McGregor, scoring a Kieran Tierney pull-back for the equaliser.
Stubborn Defence
The keeper Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, blocked an Engels shot which flicked off Tómas Magnússon. Halkett thwarted a Yamada attempt in stoppage time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the game concluded. “We remain resolute” has become the popular anthem at the stadium. It's hard to ignore the buzz.
- Full report will be available.
