The Jambos Extend Eight Points Clear Clear at the Pinnacle After Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Sees Off Celtic
We did not witness at their home ground, since it's far too early for such milestones. This game highlighted is that Heart of Midlothian possess a real strong chance of ending Scottish football's long-standing title duopoly. They now lead by eight points for the maroon side over Celtic, whom they comfortably swatted aside. The challenge is now for others.
Turning Point in the Second Half
A brief but pivotal phase proved decisive, after an opening period that was fiercely fought. It was remarkable after they took a 3-1 lead was how untroubled the rest of the game was for the home side. The Greek winger doubled the lead, cutting in from the left before firing a powerful effort past the motionless the Celtic keeper. Delight increased in the stands, Dane Murray bringing down Braga for a foul that Shankland converted. The Celtic manager appeared frustrated; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
The crowd erupted after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against Celtic.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic bounced back from an early setback. The defender, who struggled throughout, conceded an own goal due to panic when trying to remove a Shankland cross. Celtic edged their way back into the game, the captain McGregor, finishing a Tierney cutback for the equaliser.
Stubborn Defence
The keeper Schwolow, who had denied from Nygren in the first half, kept out an Arne Engels shot which deflected off Tómas Magnússon. Halkett stopped a Shin Yamada attempt in stoppage time. They comfortably saw out the game as the clock ticked down. “We shall not be moved” has become the favoured chant at the ground. It is becoming increasingly difficult the noise.
- Complete analysis to follow.