The Jambos Extend 8 Points Clear in Front at the Summit After Shankland's Penalty Kick Defeats Celtic
History wasn't made at their home ground, with it being far too early for such achievements. The encounter underlined is that Hearts possess a real serious opportunity of disrupting Scottish football's 40-year title duopoly. They now lead by eight points for the maroon side over the visitors, whom they easily dispatched. Try to chase them down.
Turning Point in the After the Break
A crucial three-minute spell made the difference, following a tight first half that was fiercely fought. The striking aspect after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how stress-free the rest of the game was for the hosts. Kyziridis doubled the lead, drifting inside before blasting a strike past the stationary the goalkeeper. Delight increased in the stands, Murray upending Cláudio Braga for a penalty that Lawrence Shankland converted. The Celtic manager cut such a disconsolate figure; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
Fans start to rejoice after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against Celtic.
Celtic's Response
Celtic had actually recovered well from the hosts' quick opening. Murray, who had a difficult day, scored an own goal due to haste when trying to remove a ball into the box. Celtic edged their way back into the game, the captain McGregor, finishing a Kieran Tierney cutback for the equaliser.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The Hearts goalkeeper Schwolow, who had denied from Nygren in the first half, blocked an Arne Engels shot which flicked off Magnússon. Craig Halkett blocked a Shin Yamada attempt in added time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the clock ticked down. “We shall not be moved” has become the popular anthem at the ground. One cannot overlook the excitement.
- Full report to follow.
