The Tynecastle side Move Eight Points Ahead Clear at the Summit After Lawrence Shankland's Spot-Kick Sees Off The Hoops
We did not witness at their home ground, with it being far too early for such landmarks. What this match did emphasise is that the Edinburgh club have a genuine strong chance of breaking Scottish football's long-standing dominance by two. That advantage stands at eight points for Hearts over the visitors, whom they decisively beat. The challenge is now for others.
Turning Point in the After the Break
A brief but pivotal phase made the difference, following a tight first half that was evenly matched. The striking aspect after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how untroubled the rest of the game was for the hosts. Kyziridis doubled the lead, cutting in from the left before thumping a right-footed shot past the static the goalkeeper. Delight increased in the stands, the Celtic defender fouling Cláudio Braga for a spot-kick that the captain converted. Brendan Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; his problems are mounting.
Fans start to rejoice after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against the opposition.
Celtic's Response
The away side responded positively from Hearts’ rapid start. Dane Murray, who struggled throughout, turned the ball into his own net due to confusion when trying to remove a ball into the box. Celtic edged their way back into the game, the captain Callum McGregor, turning home a Tierney pass for the equaliser.
Solid Backline
The shot-stopper Schwolow, who had denied from Nygren in the first half, blocked an Arne Engels shot which flicked off Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett stopped a Shin Yamada attempt in stoppage time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the game concluded. “We remain resolute” has become the favoured chant at Tynecastle. One cannot overlook the buzz.
- Complete analysis to follow.