The Tynecastle side Move Eight Points Ahead at the Summit Following Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Kick Defeats Celtic
History wasn't made at their home ground, as it's far too early for such milestones. The encounter underlined is that the Edinburgh club possess a real serious opportunity of disrupting Scottish football's 40-year title duopoly. Make that an eight-point lead for Hearts over Celtic, whom they comfortably swatted aside. The challenge is now for others.
Decisive Period in the Latter Period
A brief but pivotal phase proved decisive, once the initial exchanges that was evenly matched. It was remarkable after they took a 3-1 lead was how untroubled the closing stages of the game was for the home side. Alexandros Kyziridis doubled the lead, drifting inside before blasting a strike past the static the goalkeeper. Delight increased in the stands, Murray bringing down Braga for a spot-kick that the captain slotted home. Rodgers appeared frustrated; challenges abound for him.
Supporters began celebrating after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against the opposition.
The Visitors' Fightback
The away side responded positively from the hosts' quick opening. The defender, who struggled throughout, conceded an own goal due to confusion when trying to clear a delivery from Shankland. The Hoops worked their way into the game, the captain McGregor, scoring a Kieran Tierney pass for the equaliser.
Stubborn Defence
The shot-stopper Schwolow, who had denied from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, blocked an Engels shot which touched Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett blocked a Shin Yamada attempt in stoppage time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the minutes passed. “We remain resolute” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the ground. It's hard to ignore the buzz.
- Detailed coverage to follow.
