Hearts Extend Eight Points Clear Ahead at the Pinnacle After Shankland's Spot-Kick Defeats Celtic
History wasn't made at their home ground, as it's far too early for such milestones. What this match did emphasise is that Heart of Midlothian are at least in with credible shot of disrupting Scottish football's 40-year title duopoly. Make that an eight-point lead for the maroon side over their rivals, whom they decisively beat. Catch them if you can.
Decisive Period in the Second Half
A brief but pivotal phase proved decisive, once the initial exchanges that was contested closely. The striking aspect after they took a 3-1 lead was how untroubled the remainder of the game was for the hosts. Kyziridis netted the second goal, drifting inside before blasting a strike past the static the goalkeeper. More joy followed in the stands, Murray fouling the Hearts player for a penalty that Shankland slotted home. Brendan Rodgers looked dejected; his problems are mounting.
Fans start to rejoice after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against Celtic.
Celtic's Response
The away side responded positively from Hearts’ rapid start. The defender, who endured a torrid afternoon, scored an own goal due to confusion when trying to clear a ball into the box. The Hoops worked their way into the game, the captain Callum McGregor, turning home a Kieran Tierney pass for level terms.
Solid Backline
The Hearts goalkeeper Alexander Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Nygren in the first half, blocked an Arne Engels shot which deflected off Magnússon. Halkett stopped a Yamada attempt in added time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the game concluded. “We stand firm” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the ground. One cannot overlook the excitement.
- Full report coming soon.