Hearts Push Eight Points Ahead Ahead at the Summit After Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Kick Sees Off The Hoops
History wasn't made at Tynecastle, as it's far too early for such achievements. This game highlighted is that Hearts have a genuine strong chance of disrupting Scottish football's 40-year stranglehold. That advantage stands at eight points for the maroon side over Celtic, whom they decisively beat. Try to chase them down.
Turning Point in the Latter Period
Three second-half minutes were key, following a tight first half that was evenly matched. The striking aspect after they extended their advantage was how comfortable the remainder of the game was for the Tynecastle team. Alexandros Kyziridis netted the second goal, cutting in from the left before blasting a strike past the static Kasper Schmeichel. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Murray bringing down Braga for a penalty that Shankland tucked away. Brendan Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; challenges abound for him.
The crowd erupted after Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against the opposition.
Hoops' Reaction
The away side responded positively from Hearts’ rapid start. Murray, who endured a torrid afternoon, conceded an own goal due to panic when trying to clear a ball into the box. The Hoops worked their way into the game, the captain McGregor, scoring a Tierney cutback for the equaliser.
Stubborn Defence
The Hearts goalkeeper Alexander Schwolow, who had denied from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, parried an Engels shot which touched Tómas Magnússon. Halkett blocked a Shin Yamada attempt in stoppage time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the game concluded. “We stand firm” has become the popular anthem at Tynecastle. It's hard to ignore the noise.
- Complete analysis coming soon.
