The Jambos Move 8 Points Clear in Front at the Summit After Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Defeats Celtic
A historic moment didn't occur at their home ground, with it being far too early for such achievements. The encounter underlined is that Heart of Midlothian are at least in with strong chance of disrupting Scottish football's long-standing title duopoly. Make that an eight-point lead for Hearts over their rivals, whom they comfortably swatted aside. The challenge is now for others.
Turning Point in the After the Break
A brief but pivotal phase made the difference, following a tight first half that was contested closely. The striking aspect after they extended their advantage was how stress-free the remainder of the game was for the home side. Alexandros Kyziridis netted the second goal, cutting in from the left before firing a powerful effort past the stationary Kasper Schmeichel. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Dane Murray bringing down Cláudio Braga for a penalty that Shankland tucked away. Rodgers looked dejected; challenges abound for him.
Fans start to rejoice after Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against the opposition.
The Visitors' Fightback
The away side responded positively from an early setback. Murray, who struggled throughout, scored an own goal due to panic when trying to deal with a ball into the box. They gradually fought back into the game, the captain McGregor, finishing a Kieran Tierney pass for 1-1.
Solid Backline
The shot-stopper Alexander Schwolow, who had denied from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, blocked an Arne Engels shot which touched Tómas Magnússon. Halkett blocked a Yamada attempt in stoppage time. They comfortably saw out the game as the minutes passed. “We stand firm” has become the favoured chant at the stadium. One cannot overlook the excitement.
- Full report coming soon.
