The Jambos Move Eight Points Clear in Front at Top After Shankland's Penalty Sees Off Celtic
A historic moment didn't occur at their home ground, with it being far too early for such landmarks. The encounter underlined is that Hearts have a genuine serious opportunity of disrupting Scottish football's 40-year stranglehold. They now lead by eight points for the team over Celtic, whom they easily dispatched. Catch them if you can.
Decisive Period in the After the Break
A brief but pivotal phase were key, once the initial exchanges that was evenly matched. What was so notable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how untroubled the closing stages of the game was for the hosts. The Greek winger doubled the lead, moving infield before thumping a right-footed shot past the motionless the goalkeeper. More joy followed in the stands, the Celtic defender fouling Cláudio Braga for a foul that Shankland tucked away. Brendan Rodgers appeared frustrated; his problems are mounting.
Supporters began celebrating after Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against the opposition.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic had actually recovered well from Hearts’ rapid start. The defender, who endured a torrid afternoon, turned the ball into his own net due to confusion when trying to clear a ball into the box. They gradually fought back into the game, the captain Callum McGregor, turning home a Tierney cutback for the equaliser.
Solid Backline
The keeper Alexander Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, parried an Arne Engels shot which flicked off Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett thwarted a Yamada attempt in the dying moments. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the minutes passed. “We shall not be moved” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the stadium. One cannot overlook the buzz.
- Detailed coverage to follow.
