We did not witness at Tynecastle, as it's far too early for such achievements. The encounter underlined is that the Edinburgh club are at least in with strong chance of disrupting Scottish football's 40-year dominance by two. They now lead by eight points for the maroon side over Celtic, whom they decisively beat. The challenge is now for others.
A crucial three-minute spell proved decisive, after an opening period that was fiercely fought. It was remarkable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how comfortable the closing stages of the game was for the Tynecastle team. Kyziridis doubled the lead, cutting in from the left before blasting a strike past the stationary the Celtic keeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Murray fouling the Hearts player for a foul that Lawrence Shankland slotted home. Rodgers looked dejected; challenges abound for him.
The crowd erupted after Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against the opposition.
The away side responded positively from Hearts’ rapid start. Dane Murray, who struggled throughout, scored an own goal due to panic when trying to deal with a ball into the box. The Hoops worked their way into the game, leader Callum McGregor, turning home a Kieran Tierney pass for level terms.
The shot-stopper Alexander Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, kept out an Arne Engels shot which touched Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett blocked a Shin Yamada attempt in the dying moments. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the game concluded. “We stand firm” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at Tynecastle. One cannot overlook the excitement.
Evelyn is a financial advisor with over a decade of experience, passionate about helping individuals achieve financial independence.
Christopher Moore
Christopher Moore
Christopher Moore
Christopher Moore