Hearts Extend Eight Points Clear Clear at the Pinnacle After Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Defeats The Hoops
A historic moment didn't occur at their home ground, with it being far too early for such landmarks. The encounter underlined is that Hearts possess a real serious opportunity of breaking Scottish football's four decade-long stranglehold. Make that an eight-point lead for Hearts over Celtic, whom they decisively beat. Try to chase them down.
Key Moments in the After the Break
A brief but pivotal phase made the difference, following a tight first half that was fiercely fought. The striking aspect after they took a 3-1 lead was how untroubled the remainder of the game was for the Tynecastle team. The Greek winger scored Hearts’ second, cutting in from the left before firing a powerful effort past the motionless Kasper Schmeichel. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Dane Murray upending Braga for a foul that Shankland tucked away. The Celtic manager looked dejected; challenges abound for him.
Fans start to rejoice after Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against the opposition.
Hoops' Reaction
The away side responded positively from an early setback. Murray, who endured a torrid afternoon, turned the ball into his own net due to haste when trying to clear a ball into the box. They gradually fought back into the game, leader McGregor, scoring a Kieran Tierney pull-back for the equaliser.
Solid Backline
The keeper Alexander Schwolow, who had denied from Nygren in the first half, kept out an Arne Engels shot which deflected off Magnússon. Craig Halkett stopped a Shin Yamada attempt in the dying moments. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the clock ticked down. “We remain resolute” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at Tynecastle. It is becoming increasingly difficult the buzz.
- Detailed coverage to follow.
