The Jambos Push 8 Points Clear in Front at the Pinnacle Following Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Overcomes The Hoops
History wasn't made at Tynecastle, as it's far too early for such achievements. The encounter underlined is that Hearts have a genuine strong chance of disrupting Scottish football's 40-year stranglehold. They now lead by eight points for Hearts over their rivals, whom they easily dispatched. The challenge is now for others.
Key Moments in the After the Break
A crucial three-minute spell proved decisive, once the initial exchanges that was evenly matched. What was so notable after they took a 3-1 lead was how comfortable the closing stages of the game was for the home side. Alexandros Kyziridis netted the second goal, moving infield before thumping a right-footed shot past the motionless Kasper Schmeichel. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, the Celtic defender upending Braga for a foul that Shankland slotted home. Brendan Rodgers appeared frustrated; his problems are mounting.
The crowd erupted after Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against the opposition.
Hoops' Reaction
The away side responded positively from an early setback. Murray, who had a difficult day, scored 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, finishing a Kieran Tierney cutback for level terms.
Stubborn Defence
The keeper Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, kept out an Arne Engels shot which touched Tómas Magnússon. Halkett blocked a Shin Yamada attempt in stoppage time. They comfortably saw out the game as the minutes passed. “We remain resolute” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the ground. It is becoming increasingly difficult the excitement.
- Full report to follow.
