The Jambos Extend Eight Points Ahead at Top After Lawrence Shankland's Spot-Kick Overcomes Celtic
A historic moment didn't occur at their home ground, as it's far too early for such milestones. This game highlighted is that the Edinburgh club possess a real serious opportunity of breaking Scottish football's long-standing dominance by two. Make that an eight-point lead for Hearts over their rivals, whom they decisively beat. Catch them if you can.
Key Moments in the Latter Period
A brief but pivotal phase made the difference, following a tight first half 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 the goalkeeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, the Celtic defender fouling Cláudio Braga for a spot-kick that the captain slotted home. The Celtic manager cut such a disconsolate figure; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
Fans start to rejoice after Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against Celtic.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic had actually recovered well from Hearts’ rapid start. Murray, who had a difficult day, conceded an own goal due to confusion when trying to clear a Shankland cross. The Hoops worked their way into the game, the captain Callum McGregor, finishing a Tierney pass for the equaliser.
Stubborn Defence
The keeper Alexander Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Nygren in the first half, parried an Engels shot which touched Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett thwarted a Yamada attempt in added time. They comfortably saw out the game as the minutes passed. “We shall not be moved” has become the favoured chant at the ground. It's hard to ignore the buzz.
- Complete analysis to follow.
