The Jambos Push Eight Points Ahead at Top Following Shankland's Penalty Overcomes Celtic
A historic moment didn't occur at their home ground, since it's far too early for such achievements. This game highlighted is that Heart of Midlothian have a genuine serious opportunity of breaking Scottish football's four decade-long stranglehold. They now lead by eight points for the maroon side over the visitors, whom they comfortably swatted aside. Catch them if you can.
Decisive Period in the Latter Period
A brief but pivotal phase were key, once the initial exchanges that was contested closely. The striking aspect after they extended their advantage was how stress-free the rest of the game was for the hosts. The Greek winger doubled the lead, cutting in from the left before firing a powerful effort past the motionless the Celtic keeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, the Celtic defender upending the Hearts player for a penalty that the captain slotted home. The Celtic manager appeared frustrated; his problems are mounting.
Supporters began celebrating after Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against the opposition.
Celtic's Response
Celtic bounced back from the hosts' quick opening. Murray, who endured a torrid afternoon, conceded an own goal due to haste when trying to remove a delivery from Shankland. Celtic edged their way back into the game, the captain Callum McGregor, scoring a Tierney pull-back for level terms.
Stubborn Defence
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. Halkett stopped a Shin Yamada attempt in added time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the minutes passed. “We shall not be moved” has become the popular anthem at Tynecastle. It's hard to ignore the buzz.
- Full report to follow.
