The Jambos Extend Eight Points in Front at the Summit Following Shankland's Penalty Sees Off Celtic
We did not witness at their home ground, with it being far too early for such achievements. The encounter underlined is that the Edinburgh club are at least in with strong chance of breaking Scottish football's long-standing title duopoly. That advantage stands at eight points for Hearts over Celtic, whom they decisively beat. Catch them if you can.
Turning Point in the After the Break
A crucial three-minute spell made the difference, following a tight first half that was contested closely. The striking aspect after they extended their advantage was how comfortable the remainder of the game was for the Tynecastle team. Alexandros Kyziridis doubled the lead, drifting inside before firing a powerful effort past the motionless Kasper Schmeichel. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Dane Murray fouling the Hearts player for a penalty that the captain slotted home. Rodgers appeared frustrated; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
The crowd erupted after Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against the opposition.
Hoops' Reaction
The away side responded positively from the hosts' quick opening. Dane Murray, who struggled throughout, turned the ball into his own net due to haste when trying to clear a delivery from Shankland. They gradually fought back into the game, skipper McGregor, turning home a Tierney pass for 1-1.
Solid Backline
The shot-stopper Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Nygren in the first half, kept out an Engels shot which flicked off Tómas Magnússon. Halkett thwarted a Shin Yamada attempt in stoppage time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the minutes passed. “We shall not be moved” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at Tynecastle. One cannot overlook the buzz.
- Full report to follow.
