The Tynecastle side Extend Eight Points in Front at the Summit After Lawrence Shankland's Spot-Kick Defeats The Hoops
A historic moment didn't occur at their home ground, as it's far too early for such landmarks. What this match did emphasise is that Hearts possess a real serious opportunity of breaking Scottish football's four decade-long title duopoly. Make that an eight-point lead for the maroon side over Celtic, whom they easily dispatched. The challenge is now for others.
Decisive Period in the Second Half
A brief but pivotal phase proved decisive, following a tight first half that was evenly matched. The striking aspect after they extended their advantage was how stress-free the remainder of the game was for the hosts. Kyziridis scored Hearts’ second, moving infield before blasting a strike past the motionless the goalkeeper. Delight increased in the stands, Dane Murray fouling Braga for a penalty that the captain tucked away. The Celtic manager appeared frustrated; his problems are mounting.
Supporters began celebrating after Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against the opposition.
Celtic's Response
Celtic bounced back from the hosts' quick opening. The defender, who struggled throughout, scored an own goal due to confusion when trying to clear a delivery from Shankland. They gradually fought back into the game, the captain Callum McGregor, scoring a Kieran Tierney pass for level terms.
Stubborn Defence
The shot-stopper Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, blocked an Arne Engels shot which flicked off Magnússon. Craig Halkett stopped a Yamada attempt in added time. The hosts faced little else as the game concluded. “We remain resolute” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the stadium. One cannot overlook the buzz.
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