The Jambos Push 8 Points Ahead Clear at the Summit After Shankland's Penalty Overcomes Celtic
We did not witness at their home ground, since it's far too early for such achievements. The encounter underlined is that Hearts have a genuine serious opportunity of ending Scottish football's 40-year dominance by two. They now lead by eight points for Hearts over their rivals, whom they easily dispatched. Catch them if you can.
Decisive Period in the Latter Period
A crucial three-minute spell made the difference, following a tight first half that was evenly matched. The striking aspect after they took a 3-1 lead was how untroubled the remainder of the game was for the home side. The Greek winger netted the second goal, drifting inside before firing a powerful effort past the static the Celtic keeper. More joy followed in the stands, the Celtic defender fouling Cláudio Braga for a spot-kick 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.
Celtic's Response
Celtic bounced back from an early setback. Murray, who had a difficult day, turned the ball into his own net due to haste when trying to clear a Shankland cross. The Hoops worked their way into the game, skipper Callum McGregor, scoring a Tierney pull-back for level terms.
Stubborn Defence
The shot-stopper Alexander Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Nygren in the first half, kept out an Arne Engels shot which touched Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett stopped a Yamada attempt in stoppage time. The hosts faced little else as the game concluded. “We shall not be moved” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the ground. One cannot overlook the noise.
- Detailed coverage coming soon.
