The Tynecastle side Extend 8 Points Clear Ahead at the Pinnacle Following Shankland's Penalty Overcomes The Hoops
A historic moment didn't occur at Tynecastle, since it's far too early for such milestones. This game highlighted is that Heart of Midlothian have a genuine strong chance of breaking Scottish football's four decade-long dominance by two. That advantage stands at eight points for the team over their rivals, whom they decisively beat. The challenge is now for others.
Turning Point in the Second Half
A crucial three-minute spell were key, following a tight first half that was fiercely fought. What was so notable after they took a 3-1 lead was how stress-free the rest of the game was for the Tynecastle team. Kyziridis doubled the lead, cutting in from the left before thumping a right-footed shot past the motionless the Celtic keeper. More joy followed in the stands, the Celtic defender bringing down Braga for a foul that Lawrence Shankland slotted home. The Celtic manager appeared frustrated; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
Fans start to rejoice after Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against the opposition.
The Visitors' Fightback
The away side responded positively from the hosts' quick opening. The defender, who endured a torrid afternoon, scored an own goal due to panic when trying to clear a delivery from Shankland. Celtic edged their way back into the game, leader Callum McGregor, turning home a Kieran Tierney cutback for level terms.
Solid Backline
The Hearts goalkeeper Alexander Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, blocked an Engels shot which touched Tómas Magnússon. Halkett thwarted a Shin Yamada attempt in stoppage time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the clock ticked down. “We shall not be moved” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the ground. One cannot overlook the noise.
- Full report to follow.
